By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
The first day of spring is less than three weeks away, and with that brings the reminder of severe weather. The Barton County Commission approved the proclamation of Severe Weather Preparedness Week for March 3-7.
Barton County Administrator Matt Patzner said last year’s storm season produced 89 tornados in Kansas, almost double from the year before.
"Spring severe weather threats include not only tornados and flooding but also drought, wildfires, hail, high winds, lightning and extreme heat," said Patzner. "All events can produce emergency situations for individuals, families and businesses throughout Barton County."
The 2025 state-wide tornado safety drill will be March 5 at 10 a.m. Patzner said the county reminds everyone to be prepared for the spring severe weather season.
"This serves as an opportunity for all citizens to test their personal severe weather safety plans or be reminded to develop one," said Patzner.
The Storm Fury on the Plains, a storm identification presentation from the National Weather Service, will take place March 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Crest Theater in Great Bend.