As we move through the Easter season in Northwest Louisiana, most of us are focused on family, faith, and fresh beginnings. But with the change of seasons also comes the arrival of something far less joyful—severe weather season.
If recent storms are any indication, this year’s weather threats may be arriving earlier than usual. Hail, strong winds, and even tornadoes have already made headlines in our region. That’s why it’s important to pause for a moment and ask: Are we prepared?
We may not be able to control what the skies bring our way, but we can control how ready we are for it.
Stay Weather Aware. Make it a habit to monitor local forecasts from trusted sources. Whether it’s television, NOAA weather radio, or a weather app on your phone, knowing what’s coming can help you act quickly when time matters most.
Sign Up for Alerts. Webster Parish residents have access to emergency alert systems that send weather warnings directly to your phone or email. It only takes a few minutes to sign up, and it could make all the difference in an emergency.
Have a Plan. Talk with your family now about where to go in the event of a tornado warning. Identify a safe space in your home—an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows. Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan.
Know the Lingo It’s easy to confuse a watch with a warning. Remember: a watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather. A warning means it’s happening or about to happen—take shelter immediately.
Pack an Emergency Kit. Keep a kit handy with the basics: flashlight, extra batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, medications, first-aid supplies, and important documents. If you need to shelter quickly or go without power, you’ll be glad you have it.
Think Ahead. Secure any outdoor items that might blow away or cause damage. If hail is forecast, move vehicles under cover if possible. And remember, outdoor warning sirens are not meant to be heard inside your home, so always have more than one way to receive alerts.
We’ve all seen how unpredictable our Louisiana weather can be. Tornadoes, hailstorms, and flash floods can develop in a matter of minutes. But when we’re prepared, we give ourselves and our families the best chance to stay safe.
As we enjoy all that spring has to offer, let’s not forget to stay weather-aware and storm-ready. And let’s also check in on our neighbors—especially the elderly or those without access to information. A little awareness and preparation can go a long way in making sure our community weathers the storms ahead.
Stay safe out there, Webster Parish.
David Specht is president of Specht Newspapers, Inc., Publisher of the Minden Press-Herald, Bossier Press-Tribune, and BIZ Magazine.