Protecting your community from inclement weather starts with a plan, and the National Weather Service’s StormReady program can help your county strengthen its preparedness efforts.
StormReady is a national standard of weather preparedness certified by the National Weather Service (NWS). The free program is focused on establishing strong communication channels and information sharing between NWS, local officials and the public.
As of August 2024, around 70 Kentucky counties are currently StormReady certified or are in the process of applying. KACo – a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador and StormReady Supporter – is working with NWS to help Kentucky become certified in all 120 counties.
Becoming StormReady
County emergency management directors are encouraged to check their StormReady status. The application is straight-forward and most counties already meet the requirements through their current emergency plans and communication tools.
- Review the StormReady application process. Click here to view slides from the KACo Leadership Institute StormReady webinar or watch a recording of the training.
- Contact the Warning Coordination Meteorologist for your NWS region. They can answer specific questions and assist with your application.
- Complete the application and submit it to your region’s NWS office.
- Visit the NWS office in your region to meet their staff and review your county’s hazardous weather plan.
- Celebrate your StormReady status with a public announcement. NWS provides a StormReady road sign you can display in your county.
- Maintain StormReady certification by building a good working relationship with NWS and engaging in best practices for weather preparedness.
Questions?
For more information about StormReady or a review of your county’s emergency response plan, contact KACo Emergency Management Liaison Jon Kovach at jon.kovach@kaco.org.
