After several months of watching severe weather ravage other parts of the United States, we have been busy these past few weeks chasing down severe weather here in Nebraska. After returning from Cherry County the other night, the team settled in for what was going to obviously be our last day of rest for a while; severe weather is definitely going to start effecting the KRVN listening area and beyond.  

As the Vortex 2 armada gathered in Kearney last night, June 1st came into Nebraska bringing hail, some high winds and heavy rain.  As the countrysides woke up, the sky already looked ominous...just a precourser possibly of what could happen later today.

The presence of the Vortex 2 trucks, along with watched already posted for most of the state brings up the subject of preparedness once again. Do you have your plan? Is your weather radio turned on today?  Make sure you are tuned to KRVN at work or in your car!

Now, as much as I would like to go on a rant about the importance of disaster preparedness and planning, I am going to allow you to read through old posts instead as we are cleaning up the trucks from this morning's activities and preparing ourselves for the afternoon. I will leave you all with some caution tips:

Be aware that the last few months have shown us that everyone is a stormchaser. Accidents, clogged roads and injuries have riddled this season as the highways are filled with literally hundreds of "chasers" trying to get a glimpse of the storms.  This means that today could possibly be a heavy "chaser traffic" day.  Also be aware that the Vortex 2 crews are out and about tryi9ng to complete their research mission (see previous posts regarding Vortex 2) and they need some space.

Be aware that many of the chasers out on the roads are focusing on the storm and unfortunately are not that aware of the traffic around them; that includes you and your family.  Drive defensively and try to limit travel as the conditions worsen.

Be aware that these storms today could impact a LARGE portion of Nebraska with high winds, hail and isolated tornadoes. Before, during and after these storms, you need to take every precaution to protect yourself and your family.  Stay off of roads you KNOW are damaged or blocked, watch for response vehicles, and watch for news crews, chasers and onlookers.

These storms will carry a lot of lightning.  When you hear thunder, take cover and follow the advice of your KRVN personalities, the National Weather Service and friendly neighborhood disaster preparedness educator.

Lastly, Make sure your plans are in place and you know where your family will be today.  It's June 1st in Nebraska...the thunder rolls...