Today has been designated as Iowa Winter Weather Awareness Day as a reminder to residents that blizzards, ice storms, and other winter hazards are closer than you may think.

Kelsey Angle, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Des Moines, explains why the Iowa office observes a day dedicated to reminding citizens about the dangers of winter weather. “Well, it’s important for people to plan and prepare as we head towards the heart of the winter season, to make sure that you do have a plan and a winter safety kit if you’re going to be traveling across the State of Iowa. Because it’s just a matter of days and weeks and months before we get into the heart of winter weather.”

Angle adds, the National Weather Service has gotten very good at predicting winter storms, in some cases giving people a full-week’s notice of inclement weather. However, he admits there are occasions where storms can seemingly come from nowhere, and it’s those cases where having a safety kit is all the more important. In the event of severe winter storms, Angle also appreciates the efforts of radio stations like Raccoon Valley Radio, which stays in constant contact with meteorologists to keep the public informed.

Whenever severe winter weather is affecting the residents of Dallas County, listen to FM 99.7, AM 1310, KDLS for Severe Weather Action Team coverage.