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Tips to be prepared for severe weather

You don't want to wait until the storm hits to make sure you're ready, so here's what you can do to prepare right now.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A potentially dangerous weekend is on the way for Kentuckiana. The storm team forecast shows a high chance of heavy rain and damaging winds, with flooding and possibly isolated tornadoes. The severe could start overnight Friday into Saturday.

But you don't want to wait until the last minute to make sure you're ready. If a storm happens overnight, you will want to make sure you're well prepared and always up to date on what's happening.

Here are some tips and things you can do right now to make sure you're ready the next time severe weather hits:

  • It's a good idea to have a NOAA weather radio handy just in case the power goes out and your phone dies so you'll still know what's going on.
  • Choose a friend that's out of state as your go-to "check in" contact. Family members should know to call this person in the event your family gets separated.

RELATED: Step-by-step | How to set up severe weather alerts on your iPhone or Android

When it comes to severe safety, it's important to know the difference between a watch and a warning.

RELATED: Watch vs Warning | Understanding severe weather alerts

RELATED: Tornado Safety | Here's what you should do before, during and after a tornado to keep you and your family safe

 TORNADO WATCH

Think "be prepared." Severe thunderstorms are possible and near your area.

TORNADO WARNING

Think "take action." Severe weather has been spotted, indicating imminent danger.

LIGHTNING

For lightning, there's the 30/30 rule. If you spot lightning, count to 30. If you can't get to 30 before hearing thunder, it's best to go inside. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last boom of thunder.

FLOOD SAFETY

Copy any important documents and seal them in a watertight container in case of any water damage to your home.

Make it easy to get severe weather updates and alerts. Download the WHAS11 News app now. For Apple or Android users.

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Credit: WHAS11

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