As you may be aware, a severe weather outbreak is possible Sunday, April 12th. During this outbreak, all modes of severe weather will be possible (including deadly, long-track spin-up tornadoes.)
We have held off on posting about this until now as we wanted to have as much information as possible before posting. Even now, there are a number of variables that are still uncertain. Those variables will determine the outcome of this event.
As of now, we are currently under an ENHANCED risk of severe weather. There will be two possible rounds of storms – the first occurring Sunday afternoon, with the second (more severe) round occurring Sunday evening into the nighttime hours.
We recommend you have MULTIPLE ways of receiving weather alerts. Your NOAA Weather Radio will be your first line of defense. NOW is the time to ensure it is connected, has fresh batteries, and the alerts are switched ON. Second, you need to have another way (such as a cell phone) to receive alerts – NOAA transmitters can and do go off-air during severe weather, so having a backup is advised. If you are in Bradley County, you can send a text to 888777 with CBCEMA in the body in order to sign up for FREE Nixle alerts.
Also, be advised, Bradley County EMA has announced that, if need arises, only the Walker Valley storm shelter/safe room will be opened. Previously, it had been announced that no shelters would be opened due to COVID-19. Early Sunday afternoon, Bradley County EMA Director Troy Spence announced that the Walker Valley site would be opened if needed. See this Facebook post for more information on how to be notified if the shelter is opened, as well as requirements if you plan to go.
