Tulsa launches weather emergency siren education and notifications for deaf community

In a recent meeting held by the Tulsa Women's Commission, critical discussions centered around community preparedness for severe weather emergencies. As spring approaches, the urgency to educate residents about the city's outdoor warning sirens and their meanings has become paramount.

The meeting highlighted the three distinct tones used by Tulsa's sirens: a steady tone for tornado warnings, a second sound for nuclear threats, and a third for potential flooding. Understanding these alerts is essential for residents to take immediate action when danger looms. The steady tone, often associated with tornado threats, can also signal hazardous material releases, emphasizing the need for vigilance even during calm weather.

In a significant move to enhance safety for all citizens, the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security introduced a free service called Okay WARN. This program provides timely weather emergency notifications via pager, email, or cell phone, particularly benefiting the deaf and hard of hearing community. Participants will receive alerts directly from the National Weather Service, ensuring they are informed and prepared.

Meteorologist Steve Pilz, who spoke at the meeting, underscored the unpredictability of thunderstorms and the potential for tornadoes to develop rapidly. He urged residents not to dismiss tornado threats during severe thunderstorm watches, as early warnings can provide crucial time for preparation. The National Weather Service issues these warnings based on real-time data, aiming to alert the public before severe conditions arise.

As the meeting concluded, attendees were reminded of the importance of staying informed through local media and utilizing resources like the Tulsa Ready app, available for both Apple and Android devices. With severe weather season on the horizon, the commission's efforts to educate and prepare the community are vital in ensuring the safety and well-being of Tulsa's residents.