Emergency Warnings

Overview

When disaster strikes, you may have only a short time to make what might be a life-or-death decision. We cannot predict exactly where or when they will occur, but you can take precautions to minimize the danger. One of the most important things you can do is to be aware a danger is present. For this reason, it is important you understand the warning system.

Village of Lake Delton Warning System

The Village of Lake Delton warning system consists of multiple components. We recognize that no one application can provide a warning to all citizens. As a result, we take a systematic approach, understanding the advantages and limitations of each component.

Severe Weather Watches & Warnings

The National Weather Service is responsible for issuing all severe weather alerts. The National Weather Service, when issuing severe weather alerts, uses the terms "Watch" and "Warning." Knowing the difference between a "Watch" and a "Warning" is very important.

  • Severe thunderstorm watch - conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms. It is important to think about where you will be during the lifetime of the watch. If you are outdoors, develop a plan to include directions to the nearest shelter.
  • Severe thunderstorm warning - means a severe storm is imminent: occurring or about to occur. It is important to get to safety immediately. Severe winds- gusts of 58 mph or more - can down trees and power lines.
  • Tornado watch - atmospheric conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. It is important to think about where you will be during the lifetime of the watch. If you are outdoors, develop a plan that includes directions to the nearest tornado shelter. If you are indoors, think about where you should go in the event of a tornado.
  • Tornado warning - means a tornado is imminent: occurring or about to occur. It is important to get to safety immediately.

Suggestions

Following significant storm events, people often report the storm hit "with no warning." This is tragic, but it is only very rarely true. Major storm events are usually preceded by a Watch issued hours in advance, and a Warning issued when dangerous weather is imminent. Advance warning time is available, if people receive the information and take appropriate action. 

A warning system can only be effective if you actually receive the information. No single warning method is perfect and no warning method is guaranteed never to fail. 

We strongly recommend that you consider the following:

  • Do something to assure you are able to receive warning information when issued.
  • Have a backup.
  • Purchase and use a weather alert radio.
  • Only rely on the sirens for outdoor warnings.
  • Verify that the Wireless Emergency Alert feature is enabled on your smartphone.
  • Set up a weather warning app on your smartphone.
  • Turn to broadcast radio or television for details and follow-up information.