What is a StormReady University?

StormReady, a National Weather Service program started in 1999 in Tulsa, OK, helps arm America's communities with the communication and safety skills needed to save lives and property--before and during the event. StormReady helps community leaders and emergency managers strengthen local safety programs. StormReady helps arm America's communities with the communication and safety skills needed to save lives and property--before, during and after the event. StormReady helps community leaders and emergency managers strengthen local safety programs. No community is storm proof, but StormReady can help communities save lives.

Why is it important to become a StormReady University?

According to the National Weather Service:

• The United States is one of the most severe weather-prone countries on Earth.
• Each year across America there is on average 100,000 thunderstorms, 10,000 severe thunderstorms, 5,000 floods, 1,000 tornadoes, and 2 landfalling deadly hurricanes.
• And this dangerous weather is in addition to winter storms, intense summer heat, high winds, wild fires and other deadly weather impacts
• Additionally, about 98 % of all presidentially declared disasters are weather related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage.

What did UAB do to become a StormReady University?

• Have a 24-hour warning point and emergency operations center
• Have more than one way to receive severe weather forecasts and warnings and to alert the community
• Create a system that monitors local weather conditions
• Promote the importance of readiness through community seminars and training classes
• Develop a formal hazardous weather plan
• Develop weather specific training and exercises

Who helped UAB become a StormReady University?

• The National Weather Service
• Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency
• Dr. Ray Watts, UAB President
• Mr. Allen Bolton, Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration
• Mr. Bob McMains, UAB Senior Facilities Officer (Retired)
• Mr. Max Richard, UAB Assistant Vice President (Retired)
• Mr. Eddie Coar, UAB Director for Emergency Management