DETROIT – Metro Detroit emergency managers are using Severe Weather Awareness Week to remind residents that tornadoes and other dangerous storms can strike in Michigan -- and that preparation ahead of time can make a major difference.
Earlier this month, four tornadoes touched down in Branch, Calhoun, Cass and St. Joseph counties, causing widespread damage. Those storms also proved deadly: officials said four people were killed and many others were injured.
Related: Whitmer’s office questions National Weather Service response after deadly tornados
James Buford, the City of Detroit’s emergency management coordinator, says it’s important to understand the difference between a watch and a warning.
“A tornado watch… [means] there’s the potential for tornadoes to actually occur in the area,” Buford said. “If you get a warning, that means a tornado has been sighted -- and that you need to take cover.”
---> Tornado watch vs. tornado warning: What the alerts mean and why they matter
Emergency workers across metro Detroit say now is the time to review how your household receives alerts and what you would do if a tornado threatened your neighborhood. Some residents say they’re not sure they’re ready.
Buford recommends families stock basic supplies in case severe weather knocks out power or makes travel unsafe.
“Make sure you have plenty of water in your home, in case you lose power,” Buford said. “Make sure you have additional food sources. Make sure your pets are taken care of, also during this type of weather.”
He recommends having water, food, clothing and other essentials for at least three days.
Officials also urge residents to make sure they can receive warnings quickly. Many people rely on phone alerts, but local sirens can also be an important signal. Detroit has 54 tornado sirens, which are tested the first Saturday of each month.
During a tornado warning, Buford says to prioritize getting to the safest spot in your home.
“Make sure that you lock all of your windows and your doors,” he said. “Make sure that you move to the center of your house or the basement of your house -- It’s just being as safe as possible and having your family in the safest position within your home.”
One more key recommendation: create a family communication plan so everyone knows where to go and how to check in if severe weather hits.
For more information on severe weather safety tips and resources, visit Ready.gov. Detroit-specific guidance is available at DetroitMI.gov by searching “severe weather.”