News

CPU Encourages Participation in Spring Severe Weather Awareness Week

Statewide tornado drill scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 14

Mississippi's Spring Severe Weather Awareness Week is Feb. 11-17, and Clarksdale Public Utilities is joining the National Weather Service, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and others in encouraging area residents and businesses to make severe weather planning and preparation a priority.

Lending his support, Gov. Tate Reeves recognized the annual awareness campaign again this year. Each day of the week focuses on a different type of event, as well as the warning and drill system.

“Severe weather can occur any time, and some of the strongest storms hit our state during March, April, and May,” said CPU General Manager Curtis D. Boschert. “Our employees encourage family, friends and neighbors to review and update personal emergency plans so everyone knows what to do during severe weather events.”

The first few days of the week will focus on helping everyone prepare for severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, tornadoes and lightning strikes. The week wraps up with information on the different types of emergency alerts, as well as tornado safety specifically for those living in mobile or manufactured homes.

The NWS also encourages everyone to conduct their own “tornado safety drill” at 9:15 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 14 in conjunction with the weekly NOAA All-Hazards Radio Test. Part of Mississippi’s “PrepareAthon! for Tornado Safety,” the drill is an opportunity for local leaders, school officials, daycare staff, animal care facilities, business owners and residents to practice and refine what they would do in the event of an actual tornado warning.

“Planning and practicing when there is no immediate threat can go a long way in helping everyone weather storms safely,” said Boschert. “While we have been spared in recent years from some of nature’s most destructive tornadoes, some of our fellow Mississippians have not. Our thoughts are with them as we prepare for another spring storm season.”

Here are a few tips to help you stay ready:

• Monitor weather forecasts so you will be as informed as possible.
• Install a smart phone app that will alert you to severe weather in the area or sign up for emergency alerts on your smart phone.
• Have a weather radio with a loud alarm that wakes you when severe weather threatens at night.
• Make sure everyone knows and practices personal emergency evacuation and shelter plans. This includes arrangements for pets as well.
• Keep an emergency kit on hand.
• Have several days of water and non-perishable food, as well as flashlights and batteries, stocked and available for use if needed.
• Make sure all prescriptions are up-to-date and filled.
• Make a list of important personal information including telephone numbers and insurance details.
• Visit ready.gov for more helpful tips and planning info, including shelter and evacuation guidelines.

And to report a power outage, water leak or any other service-related issue, customers should call CPU at 662-627-8499. For downed power lines or any other potentially life-threatening power emergency, stay away and call 662-627-8499, or 911 after hours.

Clarksdale Public Utilities is a municipally owned utility serving approximately 6,800 homes and businesses in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Its mission is to safely provide sustainable electric, water and wastewater services in a reliable and courteous manner by well-trained team members, committed to top quality, efficient operations, competitive rates and the vitality of the community.