Ellis County Office of Emergency Management

ALT Image includes a list of what to report to the National Weather Service Office in Fort Worth: Penny/dimed sized hail or larger, a description of what was damaged by thunderstorm winds, flash flooding, and signs that a tornado may be developing or is ongoing. Image also includes pictures of each threat.

ALT Image that shows the different ways to send severe storm reports. You can help keep your local community safe and improve our ability to warn the public by providing timely and accurate reports of severe weather to the National Weather Service. Don’t forget to include time and exact locations and always put safety first.

ALT When Thunder Roars Go Indoors! Lightning Fatalities for Outdoor Sports: Soccer-40% Golf-27% Running-17% Baseball-10% Football-3% Other-3%. Step 1: Leave the field immediately. Step 2: Seek shelter in an enclosed building or car (windows up). Wait 30 minutes after hearing thunder to return outside.

ALT A few days out: if the forecast calls for winter weather, start preparing now. Have emergency supplies for your home & car. Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources. The day before: forecast accuracy continues to improve, so keep checking the latest. Adjust plans. Have multiple ways to receive Warnings. Bring pets indoors and ensure they have water. During and after: remain vigilant and stay informed. Drive only if necessary. Check on neighbors and family. Properly ventilate emergency heat sources. Keep generators at least 20 feet from your home. Take it easy when shoveling.