God says in Psalms 147:8, “He covers the sky with clouds, he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills.” Since March is severe weather month, I thought this would be a good verse to start with. When I am not teaching, I love to watch, interpret and chase storms. I would not recommend this without a college diploma in Meteorology. While my undergraduate degree is not in Meteorology, I picked up a certification in forecasting which was a lot of fun. It gave me a better understanding of reading and interpreting not only specific kinds of radar, but I am able to read specific future weather models. Since God creates the weather, no matter how much a person studies the patterns, there is still unpredictability in forecasting.
Just like being prepared for the return of God, you need to be prepared for severe weather. 2 Timothy 4:2 says, “…be prepared in season and out of season.” I am sure most of you knew that Bloomington, Indiana had an EF-2 tornado last week. This was definitely out of season! Before severe weather strikes, you should have a plan. The best place to go during storms is in the southwest corner of your basement away from windows. If you do not have a basement, go to the innermost room on the lowest level of your home. This is usually a bathroom. Some communities have built storm shelters underground. Make sure you know where your safe space is! Next, since severe weather can knock out power make sure you have portable phone chargers, flashlights or candles, blankets, a weather radio that runs on batteries, a first aid kit, non-perishable foods, and bottled water, easily accessible from your storm shelter. However, if you get caught in your car, it can be a little more difficult to be prepared. First, do not try to outrun the tornado; try to get indoors. If it is not possible to get indoors, do not go under an overpass. This creates a wind tunnel. Also, you can shelter in a ditch beside the road and cover your head to avoid being hit by debris. Always carry a first aid kit, flashlight, and blankets in your car just in case you are unable to find shelter after the storm has passed. If you have any questions, feel free to email me at [email protected]