It’s spring, and that means flowers blooming, the return of birds and wildlife that have been dormant all winter, and yes, unfortunately, increased chances for severe weather.
As we head into the second half of this week, a front sweeping across the Central U.S. will bring both a risk of severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, damaging winds, large hail, and more. And as we know with any severe storm, the tornado threat is never zero.
Some of the storms could be slow moving, which also increases the threat of heavy downpours with higher rain rates that could trigger flash flooding. Flooding paired with severe thunderstorm presents a situation that can quickly change with little-to-no notice, so those areas hit the hardest must prepare now in order to protect themselves and their businesses.
Here’s what you need to know based on your unique industry:
Energy & Utilities
The Risks:
- Reduced power generation capacity
- Power outages from downed lines
- Limited access for crews to work on repairs
Actions to Consider:
- Alert residential customers to prepare for potential outages
- Increase generation to meet demand
- Secure physical assets
Aviation
The Risks:
- Increased delays and cancellations due to lightning
- Risk of aircraft or equipment damage from hail storms and high winds
- Safety risks from lightning, unsecured ground equipment, or high winds
Actions to Consider:
- Follow high-wind protocol and ground flights if needed
- Staff scheduling due to crew time out
- Reroute flights away from storm’s path
On-Demand
The Risks:
- Unmatched demand from severe weather surge
- Reduced driver safety from flash flooding
- Extended ETAs due to route obstructions
Actions to Consider:
- Incentivize couriers to prepare for demand surge
- Send fleet alerts about severe weather safety
- Adjust routes based on storm path
Sports & Entertainment
The Risks:
- Safety threats to fans on game day from lightning, heavy rains, and other inclement conditions
- Player performance disruptions from wind and precipitation
- Missed revenue opportunities without enough wind/rain apparel in stock at retail locations
Actions to Consider:
- Reschedule games/events in the direct path of storms
- Remind fans to bring wind and rain gear
- Warn staff and event-goers about possible transportation disruptions
Logistics
The Risks:
- Heightened safety risks to drivers and/or operators
- Delayed shipments and drop-offs due to road conditions, potential road closures and traffic conditions
- Damaged cargo and equipment
Actions to Consider:
- Consider rerouting to paths that avoid the storm
- Adjusting driver and delivery schedules
- Monitor winds and road conditions and inform drivers to reduce speed
- Remind drivers to park and wait out dangerous conditions like lightning to minimize safety risks
