TEMA outlines Tulsa's weather emergency sirens and services for the hearing impaired

In a recent meeting held by the Tulsa Authority for Economic Opportunity and the Tulsa Development Authority, critical discussions centered around community safety and preparedness, particularly in the face of severe weather. Joe Kralacek, the executive director of the Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), emphasized the importance of understanding the city's outdoor warning sirens, which play a vital role in alerting residents to potential dangers.

Kralacek explained that Tulsa's sirens emit three distinct tones: a steady tone for tornado warnings, a second sound for nuclear threats, and a third for flooding alerts. He urged citizens to familiarize themselves with these signals, as they can save lives during emergencies. The steady tone, for instance, not only warns of tornadoes but can also indicate hazardous material releases, prompting immediate sheltering.

In a significant move towards inclusivity, Kralacek highlighted a free service called Okay WARN, designed for the deaf and hard of hearing community. This program sends weather emergency notifications via pager, email, or cell phone, ensuring that all residents can stay informed during critical situations.

Meteorologist Steve Pilz from the National Weather Service in Tulsa added to the discussion by reminding attendees that severe weather can strike at any time, particularly during the spring months. He noted that thunderstorms can lead to tornadoes, which may form rapidly and without warning. Pilz stressed the importance of being prepared and having a plan in place, as the National Weather Service issues watches and warnings to help residents take timely action.

As the meeting concluded, the focus on community safety resonated strongly, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of urgency to stay informed and prepared. With resources like the Tulsa Ready app and ongoing education about weather safety, the city is taking proactive steps to protect its residents from the unpredictable nature of severe weather. For more information, residents are encouraged to visit the city’s website and stay connected with local media for real-time updates.