Brown County officials joined the National Weather Service and Governor Rick Perry in recognizing the week of March 2-8 as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Texas, urging the public to be prepared for the changing weather in Texas.  On a national level, the week is recognized as National Severe Weather Preparedness Week.

In Gov. Perry’s proclamation, he explained that Texas weather can change in an instant.

“As anyone caught in a Texas downpour or cold front can tell you, the weather in the Lone Star State can change in an instant,” said Perry.  “These changes can be unpredictable and intense, and severe weather can strike anywhere, at any time and with little or no warning.  Over the years, storms have posed a significant threat to Texan’s lives and properties.  As a result, we must be ever-vigilant in the face of severe weather.”

The proclamation further stated that planning and preparation can greatly reduce the loss of life and property when disasters strike.  Texans should be familiar with the difference between severe weather watches and warnings, designate a safe place for family members to meet in case of evacuation, develop a plan to communicate with relatives and friends in other area and put together a preparedness kit of important supplies.  CLICK HERE for information on how to prepare your own preparedness kit.

Most importantly, Texans should heed warnings, information and instructions provided by local officials and emergency management personnel.

In Brown County, commissioners recognized Severe Weather Awareness Week in Brown County during their regular meeting on Monday.  They along with emergency management coordinator Mechail Cox urged the public to stay informed and be prepared.

To stay informed of local emergencies and weather alerts CLICK HERE to sign up for free Code Red alerts.

For more information about severe weather and how to stay prepared, CLICK HERE.