Plan Ahead for Severe Weather This Weekend: Know Where to Go When Warnings Are Issued in Topeka, KS

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – With more severe weather expected this weekend, emergency management officials are urging residents to stay weather-aware and have multiple ways to receive warnings, emphasizing that reliance on outdoor sirens alone is insufficient for timely alerts.

Dusty Nichols, Shawnee County Emergency Management director, said preparation begins before storms develop by checking forecasts and making a safety plan. He stressed the importance of situational awareness and having reliable methods to get warnings, such as weather radios, trusted phone apps, or weather call services.

Nichols warned against depending solely on sirens, noting they may not be heard indoors or during severe weather events. Instead, he recommended using tools like the WIBW Weather App, Red Cross emergency apps, or calling 1-800-260-6695 for Weather Call information rather than contacting the station directly.

Officials highlighted that while Notice no officially designated public storm shelters in the area, residents should identify safe locations in advance. Options include interior rooms on the lowest level of homes, away from windows, or seeking shelter in sturdy buildings during emergencies.

Recent events have tested community preparedness. On Thursday night, April 24, hundreds took shelter at West Ridge Mall during a concert when severe weather threatened the area. Casey Richardson, the mall’s general manager, reported that attendees followed directions quickly and moved safely into designated storm shelter areas.

Richardson noted the mall’s storm shelters are spacious and available during normal business hours for those needing shelter. However, after hours, individuals must find alternative safe locations, as the facility does not remain open for shelter purposes outside regular operations.

Emergency management pointed out that while the Kansas Turnpike no longer has storm shelters at toll plazas, its six service areas do provide shelter options for travelers. Residents are encouraged to monitor community social media pages, as schools and churches have historically opened their doors during severe weather events when needed.

Officials continue to advise the public to have a plan in place, know multiple ways to receive warnings, and identify safe shelter locations ahead of time. As severe weather potential increases through the weekend, staying informed and prepared remains critical for public safety.