Amidst the COVID19 response, we have severe thunderstorms rolling through now

Despite the middle of our response, we got some serious weather too.

Watch = Conditions are right.

Warning = It’s here! Seek shelter now!

That’s right, now you know why Emergency Management is the best agency to lead this kind of response.

Whether it’s health emergency or large scale emergency or #basic severe weather or Godzilla…Emergency Management is THE coordinating agency to handle your disaster.

Now, go and seek cover!!

@rusnivek

Downburst with Thunderstorm at the EOC

Sometimes Mother Nature just wants to remind you of her power. Work this morning was a bit different as we saw the true power of how powerful a simple downburst can be.

As you can see, these gigantic trees were no match for the winds in excess of 50mph.

Like a pair of sticks, this thicc tree was split at the base, the thickest strongest point.

Dayum.

To give you some perspective of the size, take a look at this picture. See that Chief wearing the white shirt behind the tree? Yeah, that’s a big tree.

Keep in mind, there are two gigantic trees that instantly fell within seconds.

As you can see, our top notch ESF-03: Public Works pros are already at it with their chainsaw gang clearing priority paths for critical access.

For more detailed information on this downburst with severe thunderstorms, here’s the direct link to NWS-Chicago’s report: https://www.weather.gov/lot/2019Jul02_Severe

Stay safe and heed all the warnings of local public safety agencies.

@rusnivek

Lots of flooding all around Illinois #TADD

Lotsa flooding going on around Illinois. Reported 34 counties and counting.

Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

Daytime is easy to spot these dangers, however nighttime will be incredibly difficult. Travel with caution and always check roadways before you venture out.

Please be safe.

@rusnivek

Cold weather prep and our strong partnership with NWS Chicago

On the ready! So many things happen behind the scenes as Emergency Management Pros continue to plan and coordinate in prep for the severe cold weather inbound to our area of responsibility (AOR).

Our rock solid partnership with the National Weather Service Chicago continues to shine as we share information to our partners as well as the general public. Incorporating additional info like the Frostbite vs Hypothermia fact sheet from CDC is a bonus as we look to temps falling into the mid -20s with the windchill to reach -50 to -60.

Yikes is right.

If all predictions are correct, the forecasted temperatures are historic lows.

Our staff is currently conducting a conference call with police, fire, public works, and emergency management agencies within to discuss the extreme cold weather event tonight through Thursday.

All hands working!

Also, thanks for the briefing Ricky from the NWS Chicago!

@rusnivek

 

As we prep for the extreme cold weather #EOC

As we prep for the upcoming extreme cold weather, I am so proud of our staff at DuPage County OHSEM.

So proud to see our EOC readiness levels all blued out as we continue to serve our communities through incredibly cold winter weather.

Yep, we’re all in.

Keeping our partners informed and working the Emergency Management coordination is the magic behind the scenes we hope not to have to use.

While we are prepared to handle anything, I hope we have to handle nothing.

@rusnivek

 

Blizzard Warning in effect – NWS

Yep, I was right.

aka the official Blizzard Warning

@NWSChicago: As has been emphasized, we urge you to postpone all non-emergency travel tonight. However, if you absolutely must travel, for IL road conditions via , call 1-800-452-4368 or go to: Keep this phone no. & link handy for Mon AM commute.

*Sigh*

I had a sinking feeling that no one was going to show up for class this morning.

No pun intended.

@rusnivek

 

Children’s book on Hurricane Watch

Since it’s quiet in the office today, I’ve been assessing a few new kid preparedness and teaching tools.


Do you think Melissa has one on “Hurricane Warning” too?

Teach your kids about being safe and heeding all warnings from your local National Weather Service (NWS) office, Emergency Management officials, and public safety professionals.

@rusnivek

Are there differences in an Advisory or a Watch or Warning? #Winter #Weather #OHWx

Hello there! Do you know the differences Advisories vs Watches vs Warnings??

winterweather

Advisory – A less severe winter weather event that is imminent.

Watch – The potential exists for a significant or dangerous weather event.

Warning – A significant or dangerous weather event that is imminent

amazing

Few other bits of info from the NOAA / National Weather Service:

Hazardous Weather Outlook – The Hazardous Weather Outlook usually provides three to seven-day advance notice of a hazardous winter weather event which has the potential to threaten life or property.

Short Term Forecast – Describes the weather in the local area and includes a short-range forecast (usually not more than six hours). This product will be updated more frequently when it is used during active weather. This product is also sometimes referred to as a “NOWcast.”

Special Weather Statement – Designed to alert the public to a short term hazardous weather threat within twelve hours of occurrence, which may require a heightened level of awareness or action.

 

@rusnivek

 

Bueller? On the highway?

“My best friend’s sister’s boyfriend brother’s girlfriend, heard from this guy who knows this kid who’s going with the girl who saw Ferris pass out at 31 Flavors last night…”

Numerous government agencies are constantly trying to engage with the general public in every community. Keep up the good work ESF-03 and PIOs!

It must be serious.

Reporting live from the highway –  #SaveFerris

@rusnivek