Weather Tools to Stay Safe on the Farm

 

The weather is a frequent topic of discussion in agriculture. At times, it can take a dramatic turn, endangering life and property. This article provides resources and information to help you forecast the weather and prepare for major storms.

Weather Information for Farmers

The National Weather Service in State College, PA, has developed a one-pager for farmers and members of the agricultural community. This flyer has been distributed at farm events for several years and is an invaluable resource during the growing season. The flyer includes links to key major weather forecasting tools such as the drought monitor, rainfall forecasts and outlooks, temperature outlooks, and local weather briefings (Figure 1). You can view the full PDF and the links are relevant no matter where you live in the U.S. You can also visit weather.gov for a forecast anytime.

Local Weather Forecast Phone Recordings

National Weather Service offices often receive calls from farmers and other members of the public seeking to listen to the forecast or talk to a meteorologist if the recording does not provide them with sufficient information. Over the past few years, meteorologists have worked to enhance the quality of information included in the phone recordings to optimize forecaster workload and better serve the public. These phone recordings provide a valuable service for individuals who don’t have access to the internet or prefer to listen to the forecast on the go. The phone tree for Pennsylvania can be seen in Figure 2.

For a recording of the forecast in Central Pennsylvania, including rainfall amounts/timing and drying conditions (sunshine/breeze), call 814-954-6440 and listen to the menu items to hear the forecast for your location. You can find the number for your local NWS office by visiting www.weather.gov, clicking on your location on the map, and scrolling to the bottom of the webpage.

Hazardous Weather Alert Phone Calls

National Weather Service offices issue messages to alert the public about an imminent threat of severe weather, including severe thunderstorm warnings (60+ mph winds, 1inch+ diameter hail, and/or a tornado), tornado warnings, and flash flood warnings. When modern warning systems are down, this call alert system is an invaluable lifeline.

In Pennsylvania, you can sign up for these phone emergency alerts through the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (figure 3). Learn more and sign up online.

Weather Awareness for a Rural Nation

Communities across the country, including Amish and conservative Mennonites, choose to avoid the use of modern technologies, including phones and the internet. The Weather Awareness for a Rural Nation (WARN) initiative was started to help these communities enhance their understanding and awareness of the weather in a way that is culturally sensitive to their preferences while also providing them access to advancements in meteorological forecasts and warnings. Available to anyone interested, the WARN resources are designed to help people better protect themselves during severe weather. These include tools/resources such as informational brochures on various weather hazards and weather safety articles in Amish/Plain Community publications.