The Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma has issued a HIGH RISK for large, long-lived tornadoes and is forecasting a regional severe weather outbreak today and tonight for parts Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota.  Northern Kansas is also vulnerable. This is the HIGHEST degree of concern that can be issued by the National Weather Service so, please -- BE WATCHFUL AND PREPARED TO REACT.

Have your NOAA weather radios turned on, and monitor your local media for updates. When a tornado watch is issued, go home (or stay home) and be PREPARED to take shelter. Have an AM/FM radio standing-by should you lose power.

2008 is setting records for people dying during severe weather. Many of these deaths are the result of citizens simply not paying attention or making poor choices (i.e. driving to and from the mall shortly before a storm hits, driving on the highway as a storm approaches, etc). The greater the distance between you and shelter during a tornado watch, the more vulnerable you are.

Remember, tornado sirens ARE NOT designed to warn people INDOORS. Use your NOAA weather radio to receive up-to-the-minute warnings and special weather statements.

-- Jim