The days are slowly getting longer, and springtime is here. Spring is notorious for producing extreme weather conditions, including major snowstorms, severe thunderstorms, flooding, significant temperature changes, and high winds. As unpredictable weather events become increasingly common, being well-prepared for severe weather conditions is crucial.

Knowing what to do during an emergency is essential to being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count. Severe weather shelter locations have been assigned for all Aeronautical Center (MMAC) buildings. Personnel should be aware of the shelter location for their building. These locations are listed on the MMAC Occupational Safety and Health KSN site: MMAC Severe Weather Maps.

During regular business hours, the MMAC monitors local weather conditions through the National Weather Service (NWS) and if necessary, notifies Center employees to seek shelter. Employees should immediately leave their work area when a notification is sent out. Employees who are unable to relocate to an underground shelter should move to an interior room (e.g., restroom) on the ground floor of the building. Elevators should only be used by personnel who are unable to use stairs.

Supervisors must account for their employees after evacuating to the shelter location. Employees who cannot report to their designated assembly areas should advise their supervisor of their location as soon as possible. Employees must remain in the shelter area until advised by MMAC security, the Oklahoma City Fire Department, or the Oklahoma City Police Department about when to return to their work location.

Staying weather aware is essential during this time of year. Here are some resources for obtaining weather alerts and information:
MMAC Center Status
National Weather Service
NWS Mobile
FEMA App
Accessible Hazard Alert System (For the hearing impaired to receive alerts in American Sign Language and English voice and text)