The Weather Expert

SAFE BOATING TIPS

   Wear a Life Jacket:

The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that life jackets could have saved the lives of over 80 percent of boating fatality victims.

All boats are required to carry a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket for everyone on board. Children 14 years of age or younger, on board vessels 19 feet or less, must wear an approved life jacket when the vessel is underway.

Boat Sober

The U.S. Coast Guard reports that 1/3 of all boating deaths involved drugs or alcohol.

When boating on a lake or river the motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind, all put added stress on boat operators, which can intensify the effect of alcohol and drugs.  This can dramatically affect the operator’s coordination, judgment, reaction time, and vision.

Check Your Equipment

Boaters should make sure their gear is in good condition before heading out on the water.  Check that the engine is working properly and all fuel lines are secure.  Navigation lights are required if boating at night or during limited visibility.  Fire extinguishers should be charged.  Check that life jackets are still in good condition.

Cold Water Immersion

What is cold water immersion?

It’s not cold in the summer, so what’s the problem? Well, in Idaho, even summer water temperatures can hover around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Our body’s response to immersion into 50-degree water is something we don’t have a lot of control over.

Cold water immersion will play out in four stages:

1. Cold Shock Response – first 3-5 min
2. Cold Incapacitation – 5–30 min
3. Hypothermia – 30+ min
4. Circum-rescue Collapse – during and after rescue

Cold Shock Response – You just fell overboard! The shock of the cold water causes you to gasp for air. It takes your breath away! With all this gasping, hyperventilation will kick in, which can reduce blood flow to the brain and your oxygen supply. This may cause dizziness and confusion. Along with the hyperventilation, there is a claustrophobic feeling of not being able to get enough air and this increases the potential for panic. And if that’s not enough, the ability to hold your breath is almost impossible! And your respiratory problems are just the beginning. In addition, your Cardiovascular Responses can then include rapid heart rate (up to double or more of your normal heart rate) and some irregular heartbeats. This increased workload on the heart puts even the healthiest individuals in danger of a heart attack.

Cold Incapacitation – Very soon after immersion, the cold water can impair your ability to undertake critical survival activities. You might not be able to put on your life jacket, hold onto a floatation aid, re-board your vessel, climb a ladder, hold a rescue line, swim, or stay afloat. Swim failure can happen even to “good” swimmers. Many classed as “good” swimmers in a heated pool are unable to swim even short distances in cold water, even to save their life. This loss of manual dexterity is not caused by a low core body temperature (hypothermia.) Hypothermia is the next step.

Hypothermia (Deep Body Cooling) – Once you are immersed in cold water, your core body temperature begins to decline and hypothermia can set in as quickly as ten minutes. This rate depends on water temperature, clothing, body type, and your behavior in the water. Cold water robs the body of heat 25 times faster than cold air. In many cases, you may lose consciousness and drown before your temperature drops low enough to cause death.

Circum-rescue Collapse – This occurs during or after rescue. Once rescued after you have been immersed in cold water, you are still in danger from collapse of arterial blood pressure, which can lead to cardiac arrest. Also, inhaled water can damage your lungs, and heart problems can develop as cold blood from your arms and legs is released into the core of your body.

Your chance of surviving cold water immersion depends on having the ability to swim, to keep your head out of the water (even without floatation aids), and the ability to avoid panic. You need to have sufficient flotation in order to keep your head above water, control your breathing, have a timely rescue by yourself or others, and to retain heat. Prepare for boating in cold water conditions by always wearing a secured life jacket (PFD) and wearing layered clothing for insulation.

How can I protect myself in cold water?

Your best bet is to carry and wear proper protective clothing:

PFDs
Here's another reason to wear your personal floatation device (PFD)! The more coverage your PFD provides, the better it is at preventing hypothermia. Even lightweight PFDs will help, though, if they're designed to keep your head above water.

Floatation Suits
You hear these called "wet suits." They can be a one-piece suit or a jacket and pants combination. A thin layer of water will come between you and your suit. Your body warms that water and helps maintain your core temperature.

Immersion Suits
Boaters who are out for long periods of time or in colder weather should carry an immersion suit that can be quickly donned in an emergency. These are considered "dry" suits, and they provide the highest level of thermal insulation as well as flotation. They are designed to keep you alive for an extended period of time until help arrives.   To learn more check out www.boatidaho.org

Personal Watercraft

Personal watercraft such as jet skis, waver runners, and sea-doos are popular on Idaho

lakes.  These boats have some additional safety requirements.  Anyone operating or riding on a jet ski must wear a life jacket.  Personal watercraft’s come with an emergency cut-off lanyard that must be attached to the operator.  Before borrowing a Personal Watercraft, take time to learn how to operate the vessel.

High water on Rivers

Use extreme caution on rivers during periods of high water and when the river drops.  A stretch of river that appears safe with no logjams on one day can become very deadly the next day when new obstructions are pushed in by spring runoff.

Take a Boating Course

Boat smart by learning the rules of the waves in a boating safety class.  Idaho Parks and Recreation offers home study, on-line and classroom courses.  Taking a boating class could also reduce your boat insurance.

Operate at a Safe Speed

Although there are no numerical speed limits on the water, citations may be issued for excessive speed or reckless operation. Use common sense, and operate at a safe speed at all times — especially in crowded areas.

Weather

Always check the weather report for wind and hazardous weather conditions before planning your journey.  File a float plan with a friend, detailing the length of your trip, your travel route and destinations, and when you plan to return.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide is a potentially deadly gas that comes from the boat engine exhaust.  It has no color, taste or odor.  The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include irritated eyes, headache, nausea, weakness, and dizziness and are often confused with seasickness. If someone develops these symptoms, immediately move the person to fresh air and seek medical attention if necessary.

For questions:

Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation

Kim Jackson

Boat Education Safety Coordinator

5657 Warm Springs Avenue

Boise, Idaho 83716

Phone:  208.514.2417

kim.jackson@idpr.idaho.gov

or visit our website:  www.boatidaho.org

A Frosty Night Ahead...

With winds decreasing Tuesday night expect a cold & frosty night across the valley...

...RECORD MINIMUM TEMPERATURES FORECAST FOR WEDNESDAY MAY
THIRTEENTH...

LOW TEMPERATURES STILL LOOK TO FALL WITH A FEW DEGREES OF RECORD
VALUES AT MANY SITES FOR MAY 13 DUE TO A COOL HIGH PRESSURE CENTER
WITH LIGHT WINDS AND CLEAR SKIES OVER THE REGION EARLY WEDNESDAY.

LISTED BELOW ARE CITIES WITH THE FORECAST TEMPERATURE...THE
RECORD TEMPERATURE...THE YEAR OF THE RECORD TEMPERATURE...AND THE
PERIOD OF RECORD.

...SOUTHWEST IDAHO...

CITY.........FORECAST TEMP...RECORD TEMP...YEAR SET...YEARS
BOISE..............33............26..........1974......134
MOUNTAIN HOME......33............27..........1974......56
CALDWELL...........31............28..........1943......100
MCCALL.............21............20..........1974......76
IDAHO CITY.........22............21..........1974......77
JEROME.............30............28..........1919......66
TWIN FALLS CITY....32............25..........1919......67
FAIRFIELD..........26............21..........1974......51

...SOUTHEAST OREGON...

CITY.........FORECAST TEMP...RECORD TEMP...YEAR SET...YEARS
BURNS..............21............25..........2008......64
BAKER CITY.........24............25..........2004......59
ROME...............27............25..........1974......51
VALE...............34............29..........1985......77
ONTARIO............32............30..........1985......58 

Severe Weather Awareness - NOAA Weather Radio

...NOAA WEATHER RADIO / All HAZARDS INFORMATION… NOAA Weather Radio uses the emergency alert system to alarm radios when some warnings are issued. What is the emergency alert system? The emergency alert system (EAS) is used by all broadcasters throughout the United States as a means of alerting the public to life and property threatening situations. A digital burst of data contains information about the danger such as what the threat is…where it is…and when the threat will exist. When the EAS system is activated either a voice is heard and/or a voice and text crawl for TV is displayed describing the threat. Specially built radio and TV receivers are also capable of turning themselves on upon receipt of an EAS signal. So even if your radio is off…if an alarm is transmitted, your radio will turn on and notify you of the threat. Where can you get radios and TVs that are EAS equipped? Ask your local electronic's dealer or search the internet for products that are emergency alert system enabled. Inexpensive NOAA weather radios that are EAS enabled are available for purchase at a variety of electronic stores. EAS enabled TVs are relatively new but are also available. Most of the NOAA weather radio receivers can be placed in a silent standby mode ready to sound the alarm when a warning is issued. A list of all hazards radios can be found at weather.gov/nwr. What kind of warnings are transmitted with the eas signal? Most warnings across the country are weather related. In tornado alley most warnings are either tornado or severe thunderstorm warnings. Iin flash flood prone areas like the Desert Southwest…many of the warnings are for flash floods. Iin many parts of the Pacific Northwest, there could be a mix of all three. In addition to weather warnings…EAS can be used by local civil authorities to warn of a child abduction emergency or hazardous materials spill such as a tanker truck accident involving dangerous chemicals. What should I do when an EAS warning is heard on radio or TV? Listen carefully to the message. When an EAS activation occurs the broadcaster, or text message on TV, will describe the reason for the activation…the location where the threat exists…and the time frame when the hazard is expected to exist. Iinstructions on how to avoid the threat may also be part of the message. The EAS system is tested on weekly and monthly basis. The National Weather Service also conducts tests on the NOAA Weather Radio on Wednesdays. Listen for the tests so you recognize what an EAS activation sounds like. When a real activation takes place, you will be able to immediately recognize the EAS sound. How do I hear NOAA Weather Radio? NOAA Weather Radio is broadcast on frequencies ranging from 162.400 mhz to 162.550 mhz. This frequency range is just above the normal FM band. Special NOAA Weather Radio receivers can be purchased or many multi band radios also include the NOAA Weather Radio frequencies. You can check for your nearest transmitter at weather.gov/nwr. When important information must be relayed quickly to the public…EAS will most likely be used. When you hear the EAS alert signal…pay attention to the information and take appropriate action. The information you hear will keep you out of harms way. ************************************************************************************************** This week is Severe Weather Awareness week in the Pacific Northwest. Now is the time to get prepared for thunderstorms and tornadoes. Public information statements will be issued throughout the week to give safety information, and help you know how to respond when severe weather threatens. additional information can be found on the web at: http://weather.gov . Additional Links of Interest... Local NOAA Weather Radio Information and Coverage Maps: Spokane | Seattle | Portland | Medford | Pendleton | Boise | Pocatello NOAA's Weather Radio Frequencies across USA NOAA's Weather Radio General Information NOAA's Weather Safety website Preparedness for Severe Weather NOAA's Lightning Safety website Each local office may have photographs online ( see office links below ) Remember, in times of severe weather, you can get all these vital NOAA/National Weather Service messages via NOAA Weather Radio, your favorite local media, or through NOAA's National Weather Service websites. For questions about local Severe Weather Preparedness, contact your local NOAA National Weather Service Office: local office contact by email contact by phone Medford Ryan Sandler 541-773-1067 Seattle Ted Buehner 206-526-6087 Spokane Kerry Jones 509-244-6395 Pendleton Dennis Hull 541-276-4493 Portland Tyree Wilde 503-261-9246 Boise Paul Flatt 208-334-9861 Pocatello Vern Preston 208-233-0834

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This website provided as a service by: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin. (NOAA) page last updated: March 13, 2009

Severe Weather Awareness - Outlooks, Watches & Warnings

...UNDERSTANDING OUTLOOKS…WATCHES AND WARNINGS... During Severe Weather Awareness Week…the National Weather Service reminds you of how we serve to protect and inform you, and what actions you should take when severe weather threatens. National Weather Service (NWS) forecasters know when weather conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop. When these conditions are expected or occurring…the NWS will issue OUTLOOKS ….WATCHES and WARNINGS to inform you of the threat. A suite of National Weather Service messages serves to heighten your awareness and alert you to actions you can take as the severe weather threat nears your location. The National Weather Service uses a three tier approach to alert the public for the potential for severe weather. This three tier approach consists of OUTLOOKS, WATCHES and WARNINGS. OUTLOOKS Everyday, NWS forecasters in the Pacific Northwest assess the chance for severe weather. A hazardous weather outlook is issued to alert people when conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop within the next few days. WATCHES A Severe Weather Watch is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms or tornadoes to develop. A watch is usually issued for large areas involving many counties. It heightens your awareness of the possibility of severe weather in the next several hours. If you are in the area covered by a watch, continue with your normal activities, but at the same time make a plan where you would go for shelter if severe weather were to strike suddenly. If high winds is a primary threat, tying down or bringing loose objects indoors is a good idea. WARNINGS A Severe Weather Warning is an urgent message to tell you that severe weather is imminent or occurring . Warnings are usually for small areas, part of a county, or a county or two at a time. A severe thunderstorm or tornado warning is usually in effect for 30 minutes to one hour. Your immediate action is necessary if you are in the path of the storm. In times of severe weather, you can get all these vital National Weather Service messages on NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio. Many weather radio receivers have a built in tone alarm, that is activated by the National Weather Service when watches and warnings are issued. you can also get weather information, based on national weather service products, from your local radio or television stations or from our web page at weather.gov. Public information statements will be issued throughout the week to give safety information, and help you know how to respond when severe weather threatens. Additional information can also be found on the web at: http://weather.gov. Additional Links of Interest... NOAA's Weather Safety website Preparedness for Severe Weather Northwest Geographic Coordination Center Washington Department of Natural Resources Oregon Department of Forestry National Interagency Fire Center NOAA's Lightning Safety website Each local office may have photographs online ( see office links below ) Remember, in times of severe weather, you can get all these vital NOAA/National Weather Service messages via NOAA Weather Radio, your favorite local media, or through NOAA's National Weather Service websites. For questions about local Severe Weather Preparedness, contact your local NOAA National Weather Service Office: local office contact by email contact by phone Medford Ryan Sandler 541-773-1067 Seattle Ted Buehner 206-526-6087 Spokane Kerry Jones 509-244-6395 Pendleton Dennis Hull 541-276-4493 Portland Tyree Wilde 503-261-9246 Boise Paul Flatt 208-334-9861 Pocatello Vern Preston 208-233-0834

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This website provided as a service by: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin. (NOAA) page last updated: March 13, 2009

Severe Weather Awareness - Wildland Fires

...WILDFIRE INFORMATION AND SAFETY RULES... NOAA 's National Weather Service continues the Pacific Northwest Severe Weather Awareness Week today with fire weather. Although wildfires are not a direct weather phenomenon, weather plays a large role in the ignition and spread of wildfires. “Wildfires are a perennial hazard in the Pacific Northwest ,” added John Jannuzzi, Meteorologist in Charge of NOAA's National Weather Service forecast office in Boise , Idaho . “Summer dryness combined with strong winds or dry lightning, can lead to significant wildfire hazards in the summer and fall.” The wildfire threat in the Pacific Northwest normally rises significantly after the middle of June. This threat usually peaks in early July and remains high through August and early September. Most wildfires in the Pacific Northwest are ignited by lightning. Additionally, many rangeland and wheatfield fires are caused by lightning. Many of these lightning caused wildfires occur in the absence of rain. When this occurs, ightning is commonly referred to as "dry lightning." Gusty winds often accompany thunderstorms and these gusty winds accelerate the spread of fires. Lightning that strikes the ground is divided into two categories; negative and positive strikes depending on where in the thunderstorm the lightning originates. The negative strikes are far more common and come from the base of the thunderstorm. The positive strikes from the top of the cloud are more intense and are more likely to ignite a fire. Advances in lightning detection technology now provide land managers, firefighters, and weather forecasters with the ability to identify the location and type of each lightning strike within the continental United States . Lightning is often accompanied by winds associated with thunderstorms. Occasionally, the winds are in the form of strong microbursts resulting from rapid cooling of air below the thunderstorm where rain has evaporated. These thunderstorm winds can quickly turn a smoldering fire into an inferno. Thunderstorm winds tend to be erratic in direction and speed posing one of the greatest dangers for firefighters. NOAA's National Weather Service forecasters help land managers and firefighters by producing fire weather forecasts on a daily basis during the warm season. "Spot" fire weather forecasts are also provided for those who work on prescribed burns or wildfires. Forecasters also issue fire weather watches and red flag warnings for use by land managers when the combination of dry vegetation and critical weather conditions will result in a high fire danger. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind during periods when a high fire potential exists in forests and rangelands. ...Always have an escape route. Avoid being in areas where you might become trapped by a wildfire. ...You should avoid the use of matches or anything else which could ignite a fire. ...Make sure that hot parts of motorized equipment, such as mufflers, are not allowed to come in contact with dry grasses or other potentially flammable material. ...If you become trapped or cut-off by a fire, seek shelter in areas with little or no fuel such as rock slide areas or lakes. For more information on wildfire safety and fire weather, visit your local NOAA National Weather Service website or www.weather.gov. This message is brought to you by your local NOAA National Weather Service office. Additional Links of Interest... Northwest Geographic Coordination Center Washington Department of Natural Resources Oregon Department of Forestry National Interagency Fire Center NOAA's Lightning Safety website Keep Oregon Green NOAA's National Fire Weather Data Page National Wildfire Data Each local office may have photographs online ( see office links below ) Remember, in times of severe weather, you can get all these vital NOAA/National Weather Service messages via NOAA Weather Radio, your favorite local media, or through NOAA's National Weather Service websites. For questions about local Severe Weather Preparedness, contact your local NOAA National Weather Service Office: local office contact by email contact by phone Medford Ryan Sandler 541-773-1067 Seattle Ted Buehner 206-526-6087 Spokane Kerry Jones 509-244-6395 Pendleton Dennis Hull 541-276-4493 Portland Tyree Wilde 503-261-9246 Boise Paul Flatt 208-334-9861 Pocatello Vern Preston 208-233-0834

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This website provided as a service by: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin. (NOAA) page last updated: March 13, 2009

Severe Weather Awareness - Strong Winds, Hail & Lightning

Strong Winds, Hail and Lightning

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...STRONG STRAIGHT- LINE WINDS...LARGE HAIL... AND LIGHTNING ARE MAJOR WEATHER THREATS IN THE NORTHWEST... Straight line winds Downburst winds from a thunderstorm usually result when evaporation of raindrops cools air within a storm. This pocket of cooled air, heavier than the surrounding air, accelerates downward to the ground. As the cool air impacts the ground, it spreads out from the area of impact causing strong winds. Winds generated from this process can exceed 100 mph. Weather forecasters call these bursts of wind "microbursts" if they are less than 2 1/2 miles across and "macrobursts" if they are greater than 2 1/2 miles across. These downbursts of air can be detrimental to aircraft and can cause extensive damage, injuries and fatalities. Staying indoors when thunderstorms are present is good protocol. Hail Hail, another thunderstorm threat, also occurs in the northwest. Hail forms within thunderstorms as liquid water freezes in the cold mid and upper levels of storms. This ice is kept aloft by strong updrafts (convection). Hailstones may vary from pea-size to larger than softballs. Hailstones can do tremendous damage to farm crops, either as large hailstones or as an entourage of small hailstones that accumulate to a depth of several inches. Large hail can easily damage vehicles and buildings and can be life-threatening to animals and people. Even small hail can be dangerous to motorists when it accumulates on roadways. Lightning Each year about 400 people in the U.S. are struck by lightning while working outside or during other outdoor activities. In the United States an average of 62 people are killed by lightning each year and several hundred others are injuried and are left to cope with permanent disabilities. Lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall and has been documented to strike up to 70 miles away from the thunderstorm which generated the lightning. Many lightning victims are struck ahead of the storm or shortly after the storm has passed. Outdoors is the most dangerous place to be during a thunderstorm. Watch for darkening cloud bases and head to safety before that first lightning flash. If you can hear thunder, the storm is close enough that it could strike your location, and you should seek shelter. If lightning is forecast, plan an alternate activity or know where you can take cover quickly. If caught outside and lightning is in the immediate area,, and there are no safe locations nearby, the following steps will help decrease your chances of being struck by lightning. Do not seek shelter in partially enclosed building, or tall objects such as an isolated or small group of trees. Stay at least 15 feet apart from other members of your group so the lightning won't travel between you if hit. If you can possibly run to a vehicle or building, do so! Sitting or crouching on the ground is not safe and should be used only as a last resort if an enclosed building or vehicle is not available. Lightning injuries can lead to permanent disabilities or death. If someone is struck by lightning, call 9-1-1 or your local ambulance service. Give first aid as quickly as possible. People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge that can shock others, so you can examine them without risk. Try to get indoors during all thunderstorms. When thunderstorms threaten you this season, tune to NOAA Weather Radio, The Weather Channel, or your local radio or television stations for up-to-date information. This week is severe weather awareness week in the Pacific Northwest. Now is the time to get prepared for thunderstorms and hazardous weather such as strong gusty winds, hail, and lightning. Public safety information statements will be issued throughout the week to help you know how to respond when severe weather threatens. This message is brought to you by your local NOAA National Weather Office. HOW FAR IS THE LIGHTNING? It takes thunder about 5 seconds to travel one mile. So, if you count the seconds from the flash to the thunder you can calculate the distance. A 10 second flash to thunder count would mean the lightning strike was 2 miles away. Additional Links of Interest... Spotters Guide to Estimating Hail Size Historic Thunderstorms of Oregon Notable Thunderstorms of Eastern Washington Tornadoes of Eastern Idaho Severe Emergency Plan for Inland Pacific NW Schools Preparedness for Thunderstorms NOAA's Lightning Safety website Each local office may have photographs online ( see office links below ) Remember, in times of severe weather, you can get all these vital NOAA/National Weather Service messages via NOAA Weather Radio, your favorite local media, or through NOAA's National Weather Service websites. For questions about local Severe Weather Preparedness, contact your local NOAA National Weather Service Office: local office contact by email contact by phone Medford Ryan Sandler 541-773-1067 Seattle Ted Buehner 206-526-6087 Spokane Kerry Jones 509-244-6395 Pendleton Dennis Hull 541-276-4493 Portland Tyree Wilde 503-261-9246 Boise Paul Flatt 208-334-9861 Pocatello Vern Preston 208-233-0834

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This website provided as a service by: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin. (NOAA) page last updated: March 13, 2009

Severe Weather Awareness - Tornadoes

...TORNADO INFORMATION AND SAFETY RULES... ...TORNADOES, NATURE'S FURY...   TORNADO FAQS “ Some people incorrectly believe that the Pacific Northwest does not get severe weather,” said John Livingston, meteorologist-in-charge of NOAA's National Weather Service forecast office in Spokane , Wash. “Yet, history shows this region does get severe weather, including tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flash floods.” This week is severe weather week in the Pacific Northwest and today…the focus is on tornadoes and waterspouts. Tornadoes are defined as a rapidly rotating column of air in contact with the ground while waterspouts are in contact with a body of water. A funnel cloud is not in contact with the ground. The Pacific Northwest averages six tornadoes during the year. July and August are the most common months to see a tornado although they have been reported in almost every month of the year. The majority of tornadoes occur between 1 pm and 9 pm . The usual strength is rated between an EF0 and EF2 – or better described as weak to strong with wind speeds ranging from 40 mph to 157 mph. Tornadoes do occur in western Washington and Oregon with each state averaging between one or two each year. Some years are relatively active. In 1997, Washington had a record 14 tornadoes and in 2004, 9 tornadoes. Though most tornadoes in our region are less intense than those east of the Rockies and last only a few minutes, our area did lead the nation in tornado deaths in 1972. A F3 tornado touched down in Vancouver on April 6th, plowing through a grocery store, a bowling center and a school, killing 6 people and injuring several hundred. In western Oregon and Washington tornadoes and waterspouts can occur in any month of the year, but most occur during our transition seasons – spring and fall. Nearly all occur during the heat of the day…between 1 pm and 7 pm . When conditions for tornadoes become favorable, NOAA's National Weather Service - Storm Prediction Center issues a tornado watch covering a large area for the next four to six hours. This is when you need to review what you would do in case a warning is issued. It may be too late to develop a plan after a warning goes into effect. Stay tuned to commercial radio, NOAA weather radio, local TV, or cable TV. When tornadoes are imminent or detected by Doppler Weather Radar or trained spotters, a tornado warning is issued by the NWS. Over our coastal waters, a Special Marine Warning is issued for the water equivalent of a tornado named a waterspout. Special Marine Warnings are also issued for winds in excess of 35 knots associated with strong thunderstorms. If the tornado warning is for your area, remember the following safety tips: IN HOMES OR SMALL BUILDINGS: Go to the basement (if available) or to an interior room on the lowest floor, such as a closet or bathroom. Upper floors are unsafe. If there is no time to descend, go to a closet, a small room with strong walls, or an inside hallway. Wrap yourself in overcoats or blankets to protect yourself from flying debris. IN SCHOOLS, HOSPITALS, FACTORIES, OR SHOPPING CENTERS: Go to interior rooms and halls on the lowest floor. Stay away from glass enclosed places or areas with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums and warehouses. Crouch down and cover your head. Don't take shelter in halls that open to the south or the west. Centrally-located stairwells are good shelter. IN HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS: Go to interior small rooms or halls. Stay away from exterior walls or areas containing glass. IN CARS OR MOBILE HOMES: Abandon them immediately!!! Most deaths occur in cars and mobile homes. If you are in either of those locations, leave them and go to a substantial structure or designated tornado shelter. IF NO SUITABLE STRUCTURE IS NEARBY: Lie flat in the nearest ditch or depression and use your hands to cover your head. Be alert for flash floods. DURING A TORNADO: Absolutely avoid buildings with large free-span roofs. Stay away from west and south walls. Remember, find the lowest level, smallest room, or center part of a building or home. No matter where you are, do some advance planning if possible. Identify protective areas you can get to in a hurry. Obtain a NOAA Weather Radio that will provide an alarm if a tornado watch or warning is in effect for your community or county. Tornadoes may even develop without a tornado warning in effect. Here are a few tips to help you, survivors of tornadoes have often stated hearing a loud roaring sound with tornadoes. Also, if you are receiving golfball hail or larger, you are near the most dangerous part of the storm which could be followed by a tornado. If you see rotating debris even without the existence of a funnel cloud, it could be a dangerous twister. Regardless, the key to tornado survival in the Pacific Northwest is to be prepared and take immediate action when a warning is issued or when you spot a tornado. Remember, the actions you take during a tornado event may save your life and the lives of your family. Severe Weather Awareness Week continues through May 9 in the Pacific Northwest. This is an excellent time for all individuals, families, businesses, schools, radio and television stations to review their severe weather preparedness plans. Additional Links of Interest... Enhanced Fujita Scale of Tornado strength F3 Tornado Strikes Portland/Vancouver on April 5, 1972 Historic Tornadoes of Oregon Tornadoes of Eastern Washington Tornadoes of Eastern Idaho Severe Emergency Plan for Inland Pacific NW Schools Preparedness for Tornadoes Each local office may have photographs online ( see office links below ) Remember, in times of severe weather, you can get all these vital NOAA/National Weather Service messages via NOAA Weather Radio, your favorite local media, or through NOAA's National Weather Service websites. For questions about local Severe Weather Preparedness, contact your local NOAA National Weather Service Office: local office contact by email contact by phone Medford Ryan Sandler 541-773-1067 Seattle Ted Buehner 206-526-6087 Spokane Kerry Jones 509-244-6395 Pendleton Dennis Hull 541-276-4493 Portland Tyree Wilde 503-261-9246 Boise Paul Flatt 208-334-9861 Pocatello Vern Preston 208-233-0834

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This website provided as a service by: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin. (NOAA) page last updated: March 13, 2009

Severe Weather Awareness - Flash Floods

…Flooding and flash flooding…a significant threat to life and property across the Pacific Northwest… "Flash floods are a significant concern in the region because of our rugged terrain,” said Mike Vescio, Pendleton , Ore. , weather forecast office Meteorologist in Charge. “On June 14, 1903 , the worst natural disaster in Oregon history occurred when a flash flood swept through Heppner destroying the town and claiming about 250 lives during the second worst flash flood fatality event in American history." What is the difference between a flash flood and river flooding? Flash flooding occurs within a few hours of the heavy rain event and ends a few hours after it starts. River flooding takes half a day or longer to develop and rivers will often remain above flood stage for days at a time. Flooding and flash flooding occur every year at some location across the Pacific Northwest. Since 1986, over 700 floods and flash floods have been reported somewhere in the states of Idaho, Oregon, or Washington. This is an average of over 21 flash flood events per year. Some years there are only a few events, but in a bad year more than 75 such events can occur. As long as a significant snowpack remains in the mountains…spring storms could cause rapid rises in area rivers and streams. Rain falling on the heavy snow pack has the potential to cause rapid snowmelt, flooding small streams and even larger rivers. This year's heavy snow pack will remain in the higher elevations until early July. This will keep an elevated risk of river flooding across the Pacific Northwest into early summer. An additional flooding threat across the Pacific Northwest is flash flooding due to heavy downpours from thunderstorms. FLASH FLOODING from thunderstorms is caused by the rain falling faster than it can be carried away by normal drainage channels. The result is rapid rises in small streams as the large volume of water races downstream. A flash flood refers to a dangerous sudden rise in water along a stream, river, wash, or over a normally dry land area. Flash floods result from heavy rainfall, river ice jams, snowmelt, and dam or levee failures. Flash floods can occur within a few minutes or hours, and can move at surprisingly high speeds, striking with little warning. They can erode an entire mountain side...roll boulders the size of trucks, tear out trees, destroy buildings, wash out roads and bridges and cause loss of lives. Rain weakened soils can also result in mud slides capable of closing interstates. To stay informed about a flash flood listen for: A Flash Flood Watch… This tells you that flash flooding is possible within the watch area.  You should remain alert and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice. A Flash Flood Warning... This tells you that flash flooding has been reported or is imminent. When a flash flood warning is issued for your area act quickly to save yourself.  If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Go to higher ground or climb to safety. Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water. An Urban and Small Stream Flood Advisory… This tells you that flooding of small streams...streets and low lying areas such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains, is occurring, but rainfall is not expected to produce a flash flood situation. The following basic flash flood safety rules should be observed when you see flooding or hear about a flash flood warning… Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions. If you are near a river be aware of water levels and be prepared to take action to move to higher ground if river levels rise. Do not enter areas that are already flooded. Do not try to cross a flowing stream on foot when the water is at or above your knees. If walking or fishing along a river, be aware that erosion from swift running water can cause river banks to collapse. Never let your children play around high water, storm drains, viaducts or arroyos. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers. Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are auto related.  While driving your automobile look out for flooding at highway dips, bridges and low areas.  Two feet of water will carry away most automobiles.  Never attempt to drive over a flooded road.  The road bed may be washed out under the water and you could be stranded or trapped.  If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.  Rising water may engulf the vehicle and sweep it away. THE BEST ADVICE IF YOU ARE IN A VEHICLE…TURN AROUND…DON'T DROWN. During flash flood season, and year round, stay abreast of the latest weather information.  You can receive the latest forecasts and immediate notification of warnings on NOAA weather radio. From the past... Deadly Flash Flood on June 14, 1903 at Heppner, Oregon [ historical photo ] This was surely the most deadly natural disaster in Oregon's recorded history. A strong thunderstorm, accompanied by extremely heavy rain and hail, moved near Heppner, Oregon. The storm covered a very small area, probably no more than 50 square miles. Heavy rain fell in a very short time, creating severe flash flooding along Willow Creek, normally a peaceful stream flowing through the town center. The entire town was swept away in just a few short minutes, drowning 247 people. Eyewitnesses say thunderstorm rains arrived as a 40-foot wall of water and the ensuing flood raged through town for over an hour. In all, one-third of the towns' structures were wiped out. The massive runoff of water was a result of heavy rain falling on the barren rocky hills, then flowing into the Willow Creek watershed. Only fifteen minutes separated the first rainwater in Willow Creek at Heppner and the flood crest! There are no rainfall records available for this storm because the weather observing station was completely destroyed, drowning the observer and his entire family. A similar fate would have been in store for the citizens of Ione, just 20 miles downstream. However, telephoned warnings prompted an immediate evacuation and residents escaped to high ground. At least 150 homes were destroyed at Ione and bodies were washed more than 40 miles downstream to the Columbia River. Additional Links of Interest... Historic Floods of Oregon Severe Emergency Plan for Inland Pacific NW Schools Each local office may have photographs online ( see office links below ) Remember, in times of severe weather, you can get all these vital NOAA/National Weather Service messages via NOAA Weather Radio, your favorite local media, or through NOAA's National Weather Service websites. For questions about local Severe Weather Preparedness, contact your local NOAA National Weather Service Office: local office contact by email contact by phone Medford Ryan Sandler 541-773-1067 Seattle Ted Buehner 206-526-6087 Spokane Kerry Jones 509-244-6395 Pendleton Dennis Hull 541-276-4493 Portland Tyree Wilde 503-261-9246 Boise Paul Flatt 208-334-9861 Pocatello Vern Preston 208-233-0834

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This website provided as a service by: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin. (NOAA) page last updated: March 13, 2009

Why so windy?

    After 50-70mph winds ripped up trees and destroyed a greenhouse in Boise very early Sunday morning, many are hoping the valley does not see more of the same on Tuesday afternoon and evening.  Another cold front has it sites set on Idaho's Snake  River valley.  While this one is not as potent as Monday's, many people are still concerned about their property.KIVI's Shane Johnson Reports on Windstorm

    So why are we experiencing so much wind in the valley?  Wind is just the movement of air. If you apply pressure to an air mas it will move.  This is happening constantly around the globe but we experience it more in the spring and a bit in the fall.  It's a battle of the seasons...winter is trying to hang on but warmer spring temperatures are creeping northward.

     On Sunday it was 80 degrees in Las Vegas while the Treasure Valley was just 46.  These temperatures difference in the spring create pressure differences that cause more wind.  The end result is a wild & windy March for the valley.

     As the summer warmth engulfs North America, the winds are much less dramatic.  This is because temperatures are fairly consistent so the pressure differences are weaker.

    There were some who thought a tornado hit Boise in the wee morning hours of Monday but despite uprooted trees this was not the case.  When that strong cold front moved through, the wind closest to the ground encountered a lot of friction as it has to blew around and over trees and buildings.  So the strongest winds were just a couple thousand feet above the ground.  So most areas experienced 45-55 mph winds.  In the areas that had the strongest winds, isolated thunderstorms had developed which transported the damaging winds aloft down to the ground. This ocurred in very localized areas.  It was just like adding another 20 mph from the thunderstorm to the 50mph winds that were roaring through the valley.

Should I plant yet?

     We are reaching that time of year when we all watch that morning low temperature very closely.  Some of us like to plant our precious vegetables a little early to get a jump on the season but if you are a cautious gardener you may want to hold off a little longer than some.

     If you search the web for the average date of the last frost for Boise you may come up with everything from May 8th to May 26th.  Tonight I talked to a long time gardener who uses the date of April 22nd but he also says that he does need to cover his vegetable from time to time.

     Our temperatures vary from year to year so we need to look at averages or what the National Weather Service call "normals" for an area in order to quantify what is most likely to happen.

     The NWS chart below shows we have a 50/50 shot of hitting 36 degrees on by May 26th. 36 degrees is used for the critical temperature in which frost can form on the ground.  Official temperatures are recorded at ~5 feet above the ground so 32 degree readings can be present at ground level.  Many gardeners use this date as the "safe" date meaning by this point you should be frost free.  This is not techincally the case but you can decide how much risk you want to encounter by planting earlier.

% Probability of Indicated Temperature or Lower on or After Date
	90%	75%	50%	25%	10%
36	May 10	May 13	May26	June 8	June 14
32	April 17	April 26	May 10	May 18	May 27
28	April 3	April 13	April 24	May 5	May 12
24	Feb. 21	March 4	March30	April 15	April 20
20	Jan. 26	Feb. 5	Feb. 18	March 4	March 25

Here are the charts for some other areas around the valley:

Emmett

Payette

Twin Falls

Glenns Ferry

Grand View