Category: News & Updates
Living in Wildfire Country: A Community Event
Kootenai County Emergency Management invites North Idaho residents to a free, family-friendly event all about wildfire awareness, preparedness, and safety. Living in Wildfire Country offers the chance for community members to learn practical ways to protect their home, family, and community. The event will take place Saturday, June 7 at the Athol Community Center in Athol.
Throughout the day, attendees can explore booths with helpful resources on defensible space, evacuation planning, and home hardening, as well as sign up for programs like FireSmart and fire department assessments.
The event also features two panel discussions with local, state, and federal leaders discussing collaborative wildfire efforts and how public safety partners work together during alerts and evacuations. Kids will have a blast meeting Smokey Bear, exploring the Smoke House, and trying out the Jr. Firefighter Challenge. With engaging activities for all ages and a wealth of local resources on hand, this event is a great way to stay informed, connected, and wildfire ready.
Living in Wildfire Country
Saturday, June 7
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Athol Community Center
For those with questions or in need of more information, contact kcoem@kcgov.us.
Richy and Moore Receive Idaho Distinguished Service Medal
Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is proud to recognize and honor two outstanding individuals for their contributions to public safety and emergency management in Idaho. Director Brad Richy and Dave Moore were awarded the Idaho Distinguished Service Medal, the second-highest civilian award presented in Idaho.
Director Richy distinguished himself through more than a decade of exceptional service as the Director of IOEM, following a decorated military career with the Idaho Air National Guard. Under his leadership, IOEM became nationally recognized for its innovative practices and strong partnerships, all while advancing national emergency management policy.
During his 12-year tenure, Director Richy led Idaho through 26 federally declared disasters, resulting in 393 disaster projects and more than $260 million in Public Assistance funding. His guidance during 12 Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs) also brought over $19 million in vital support to state and local response organizations.
Director Richy’s influence extended far beyond Idaho. He served as President of the National Emergency Management Association, a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Advisory Council member, and on the National Governors Association Homeland Security Advisory Council. At the state level, he was appointed by the Governor to serve as chair of the Idaho Public Safety Communications (IPSCC) and co-chair of the Wildfire Workgroup Emergency Response Committee, where he helped shape communications and wildfire response strategies statewide.
“Brad Richy has been steadfast in Idaho’s emergency management community, dedicating more than a decade to strengthening our state’s preparedness and response capabilities,” said Maj. Gen. Timothy Donnellan, the Adjutant General of the Idaho Military Division. “His leadership has contributed to a stronger and more resilient State of Idaho, IMD, IOEM, and the emergency management community at large.”
Moore’s contributions to Idaho’s public safety landscape span multiple decades and roles. He served as a Chubbuck police officer, Idaho National Laboratory Security Manager, Chief of Police in Blackfoot, and an adviser to Kazakhstan on nuclear security. Most recently, he served as Idaho’s 911 Grant Manager, helping to shape the future of emergency communications across the state.
Appointed by Governor Dirk Kempthorne as a founding member of the E911 Commission, Moore played a pivotal role in modernizing Idaho’s emergency communication systems. He managed more than $31 million in grants, supporting the implementation of Enhanced 9-1-1 (E911) in all 44 counties and laying the foundation for Next Generation 911 technology.
Moore was also a passionate legislative advocate, supporting public safety initiatives through the Idaho Chiefs of Police Association and the Idaho Association of Cities. Recognizing his lasting impact, Governor Butch Otter appointed him to the Idaho Parole and Pardons Commission, where he served until 2020.
“Dave’s attention to detail and deep commitment to community safety earned him the respect of public safety professionals statewide,” said 911 Program Manager, Eric Newman. “His work has helped save lives by making sure our 911 systems are modern, reliable, and accessible.”
During the May 8 IPSCC meeting, Maj. Gen. Donellan presented Richy and Moore with their awards.
Congratulations Director Richy and Moore on this well-deserved honor and thank you for your outstanding contributions to Idaho!
Summer Fire Season Webinar
As wildfire season approaches, it’s critical for communities across Idaho to be prepared. To help local and tribal jurisdictions stay ahead of the risks, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) invites emergency management professionals and local leaders to a Summer Fire Season Webinar on Tuesday, June 3. This webinar will focus on wildfire preparedness, response resources, and the challenges that may arise during the upcoming fire season.
Topics covered will include:
- Wildfire disaster response resources
- A presentation from Predictive Services on the outlook for fire season
- A review of the Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) and declaration process
- Updates on Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) zones
- A discussion on other critical wildfire-related issues
This training will provide an invaluable opportunity for local jurisdictions to prepare for wildfire season, with insights from key experts, including:
- National Interagency Fire Center
- Idaho Department of Lands
- Idaho Fire Chiefs Association
- Idaho Power
IOEM area field officers have also been working closely with local jurisdictions to provide hands-on wildland fire training and exercises for responders and emergency management personnel across the state. These sessions are designed to ensure that Idaho’s fire response teams are well-prepared for the challenges of fire season.
Pre-Fire Season Webinar
Tuesday, June 3
1:00 – 3:30 p.m. MT
Virtual Webinar (Microsoft Teams)
To receive the virtual meeting invite, please contact Levi Orr at lorr@imd.idaho.gov.
Wildfire Preparedness and Safety
Last year’s wildfire season kept Idaho on high alert — and this summer may be no different. The National Interagency Fire Center forecasts above-normal wildfire potential across parts of our state starting in July.
To help communities prepare, Governor Brad Little has proclaimed May as Wildfire Awareness Month in Idaho. Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is working with partners across the state to encourage Idahoans to take simple steps now that can make a big difference later. Whether you live in a forested area, near open rangeland, or in a suburban neighborhood, this month marks the perfect opportunity to get ready and learn how to prepare.
Before a Wildfire
Wildfire season is becoming longer and more intense across the West. However, planning ahead can make a real difference in your safety and your community’s resilience.
- Know Your Risk: Identify your community’s wildfire risk by visiting org/explore and discover measures to help keep you safe.
- Make an Emergency Plan: Identify multiple evacuation routes and establish a family communication plan in case you get separated.
- Build an Emergency Kit: Pack essentials including food, water, medications, N95 masks, important documents, and a battery-powered radio. Store the kit somewhere easy to grab in a hurry.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Stay informed about wildfire activity and changing conditions in your area by monitoring alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS). Know the difference between a Fire Weather Watch and a Red Flag Warning — and what actions to take for each. Also, tune into and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration(NOAA) Weather Radio.
Sign up for emergency alerts through the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS), Idaho State Alert and Warning System (ISAWS), and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA).
Follow local emergency management agencies and NWS on social media for real-time updates. Be sure to also monitor air quality alerts during fire season.
- Prepare Your Home: Create defensible space by clearing dry vegetation, leaves, and other flammable debris from around your home. Trim trees and shrubs regularly to prevent fire from spreading to structures. Maintain at least a 30-foot fire-resistant zone around homes to give firefighters a safe area to work. Use fire-resistant building materials when possible, and make sure outdoor water sources are accessible. Consider designating a sealed, indoor room with filtered air to help protect your household during smoky conditions.
During a Wildfire
If a wildfire threatens your area, stay alert and act quickly. Fires move fast, and conditions can change in moments.
- Follow Evacuation Orders: Pay close attention to guidance from local authorities and emergency responders. Don’t wait for a mandatory evacuation if you feel unsafe, leaving early can help you avoid last-minute traffic and gives firefighters the space they need to operate safely. It’s also a good idea to keep your vehicle’s gas tank full in case you need to evacuate.
- Stay Aware of Fire Conditions: Avoid activities that could spark another fire. Refrain from lighting campfires, bonfires, candles, or using outdoor equipment that generates sparks. If you smoke, fully extinguish your cigarette or cigar before disposal— never toss a burning item out of a window. Bag and safely store yard clippings, trash, and other flammable materials.
- Stay Informed: Tune into emergency broadcasts and weather updates whether that is through NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems.
- Protech Your Health: If you find yourself outside near smoke, wear an N95 mask to help protect your lungs from harmful particles.
- Protect Indoor Air: Keep windows and doors closed and use HEPA filters or air purifiers to limit indoor smoke exposure.
After a Wildfire
Even once the flames are out, risks can still remain. Returning home safely and helping your community recover is part of the preparedness cycle.
- Wait for All Clear: Don’t return home until authorities say it’s safe. Hazards like downed power lines or smoldering hot spots can linger.
- Listen to Road Closures and Cautionary Signs: Road closure and other cautionary signs are put in place for your safety. Pay attention to them!
- Check for Damage: Inspect your home and surrounding area carefully. Use caution when re-entering any structure that may have been impacted.
- Avoid Ash and Debris: Wear protective clothing and a mask when cleaning up. Ash can be toxic and irritating to your skin and lungs.
- Document Losses: Take photos of any damage for insurance purposes and contact your insurance provider promptly.
- Support Recovery Efforts: Wildfire recovery can be a long process. Check on neighbors, volunteer when safe, and connect with local disaster assistance services if needed.
Wildfires can spark quickly and with little warning. Talk with your family, make a plan, and take a few easy steps to prepare. A little action now can make all the difference when it matters most.
SBA Offers Relief to Idaho Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by the Highway 95 Landslide and Closure
APRIL 22, 2025
Media Contact: Eslam.ElFatatry@sba.gov
SBA Offers Relief to Idaho Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by the Highway 95 Landslide and Closure
Economic injury loans available for working capital needs
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced low interest federal disaster loans are now available to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Idaho who sustained economic losses caused by the Highway 95 landslide and closure beginning on March 16. The SBA issued a disaster declaration in response to a request received from Gov. Brad Little on April 18.
The disaster declaration covers the Idaho counties of Ada, Adams, Boise, Canyon, Custer, Gem, Idaho, Lemhi, Payette, Valley and Washington as well as the Oregon counties of Baker and Wallowa.
Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
Beginning Wednesday, April 23, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at a Virtual Business Recovery Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their application.
Virtual Business Recovery Center
Mondays – Fridays
8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. PT
(916) 735-1531
Opens at 8 a.m., Wednesday, April 23
The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659‑2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to return economic injury applications to the SBA is Jan. 21, 2026.
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The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Related Documents:
Governor Little Signs Legislation to Strengthen Idaho’s Hazardous Materials Response
Governor Brad Little signed Senate Bill 1130 into law marking a significant investment in Idaho’s hazardous materials response capabilities. IOEM, part of the Idaho Military Division, proposed this increased funding to ensure hazmat teams are properly equipped to serve a growing Idaho.
Passed by the Idaho Legislature in March, the bill allocates $8.6 million from the State Emergency Relief Fund to IMD’s Miscellaneous Revenue Fund to support regional hazardous material response teams. These teams are an important component of Idaho’s emergency response framework, assisting communities with hazardous substance incidents statewide.
Under the Idaho Hazardous Substance Response Act (Title 39, Chapter 71), IOEM is tasked with establishing and maintaining regional hazardous material response teams, which are hosted by local fire departments that voluntarily respond beyond their jurisdictions. While the cost of incident response is reimbursed through the deficiency warrant process, funding for maintaining response capabilities has been lacking in recent years. Much of the team’s core equipment purchases date back 20 years ago and have exceeded their useful life.
This appropriation addresses that long-standing gap and ensures Idaho’s response infrastructure is aligned with current and future safety standards and operational demands.
IOEM joined Governor Little, local fire teams, and IMD leadership for the official bill signing on Monday, April 14.
Power Outage Preparedness and Safety
Don’t get left in the dark during a power outage! A power outage happens when either partial or total loss of the electrical power supply. Triggering factors could be natural hazards, equipment failure, high energy demand, planned outages and more.
Planned or unexpected, power outages can last for days or longer, disrupting resources like communications, water, transportation, stores, and more. This may impact needs such as lighting, heating, cooling, communication, food and medicine refrigeration, cooking and medical equipment.
Idaho Office of Emergency Management encourages everyone to plan now to have what you need and to know how to stay safe.
Be Prepared in Advance
- Gather enough supplies to last for several days, including non-perishable food, water for household members, pets, and livestock, medications, batteries, flashlights, and car cell phone chargers.
- Be sure your utility provider has your current contact information for notifications. Update your account and contact information online regularly.
- Keep cell phones charged and consider a car charger for emergencies.
- Ensure you have a plan for livestock water needs if well pumps lose power.
- Consider plans to relocate with a family or friend, especially those with medical conditions or who have medication and medical equipment that requires electricity.
- Customers who rely on electricity to store medication or operate medical equipment at home should enroll in their electrical provider’s Medical Certificate Program, if available.
- Consider a backup generator for essential power needs.
- Plan for watering livestock if well pumps are without power.
- Check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you.
During a Power Outage
- Stay clear of downed power lines and anything nearby.
- Keep away from fire personnel and utility crews working to restore service.
- Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns. Avoid candles and other potential fire hazards.
- Turn off lights and disconnect appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer to prevent a surge when power is restored.
- Keep one light on to indicate when power returns.
- If you have a generator, use it carefully and safely. Only use it outdoors and do not use it near windows, or vents to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Check on elderly neighbors or individuals with special needs to make sure they are safe and taken care of.
- Call your electricity service provider to report an outage, not 911.
Stay Informed
- Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account to make sure your contact information is current for receiving alerts and messages.
- Be sure to follow and monitor your electricity provider’s social media accounts as well.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure your safety and resilience during power outages. Stay prepared and stay informed to protect yourself, your family, and your community.
High Wind Safety
High winds can pose serious risks in Idaho, from downed power lines to hazardous road conditions. Strong gusts can happen with little warning, making it important to know how to prepare and stay safe.
Taking simple steps ahead of time can help protect you, your loved ones, homes, and vehicles when high winds strike.
Hazards Associated with High Winds
High winds can cause considerable damage. Unsecured objects, such as lawn furniture or trash cans, can become dangerous projectiles. Strong gusts can knock over trees, large branches, and power lines, damaging buildings and endangering lives. Mobile homes and vehicles may be overturned. Extreme winds have the potential to tear roofs and walls from structures.
Beyond these immediate risks, high winds can also trigger other hazards. Wildfires may ignite if power lines are damaged, while severe wind or tornado events could lead to hazardous material spills, cyber disruptions, or energy shortages.
While not common, Idaho has experienced tornadoes triggered by high winds and thunderstorms.
When Do High Wind Events Occur?
Windstorms are common in Idaho and can develop during severe thunderstorms, strong weather systems, or as winds flow down mountain slopes. Sustained winds of 40–50 mph can cause isolated damage, while higher speeds can result in widespread destruction. In severe thunderstorms, straight-line winds can exceed 100 mph, turning unsecured objects into hazards and posing significant safety risks.
Mountainous areas often experience stronger winds under a wider range of conditions. Even at lower wind speeds, and gusts in valleys can be forceful enough to topple trees, damage power lines, and impact property.
NWS Wind Descriptions and Warnings
The National Weather Service (NWS) classifies wind speeds into different categories based on their strength and potential impact:
- Strong, dangerous, or damaging: 40+ mph
- Very windy: 30–40 mph
- Windy: 20–30 mph
- Breezy, brisk, or blustery: 15–25 mph
- Light wind: 0–5 mph
To help the public stay informed, NWS issues wind alerts when conditions become hazardous:
- Wind Advisory: Issued when sustained winds reach 30–39 mph and/or gusts between 45–57 mph below 7,000 feet, not associated with thunderstorms (issued for Snake Plain only).
- High Wind Watch: Issued when there is potential for sustained winds over 40 mph and/or gusts over 58 mph.
- High Wind Warning: Issued when sustained winds exceed 40 mph and/or gusts surpass 58 mph for at least one hour, not associated with thunderstorms.
Prepare Before a High Wind Event
- Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines.
- Make a list of outdoor items to tie down or put away to prevent them from blowing away or damaging property. When the NWS issues a high wind or severe thunderstorm watch, secure these items immediately.
- Identify a sturdy building at home, work, school, or any frequent locations where you can seek shelter quickly if a warning is issued.
- Make sure your household has an emergency plan in place, including evacuation routes and a communication strategy.
- Update your emergency kit with enough food and water to last several days for everyone in your household.
- Stay informed by signing up for alerts, tuning into emergency broadcasts and weather updates via NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems, and reviewing the latest forecasts and trends on weather.gov.
How to Stay Safe During High Winds
- Seek shelter in the safest nearby building you’ve identified—such as a safe room, storm shelter, or sturdy building.
- If indoors, go to the basement or lowest level of the building. Then, move to a small, interior, windowless room. Stay away from glass windows and doors.
- If you are driving, stop at a sturdy building to take shelter. Avoid parking or seeking shelter under a freeway overpass or trees. If possible, stay off the roads and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Avoid downed power lines or anything that may be in contact with them. If you come across downed power lines, report them to your utility company immediately.
- Continue to monitor weather and local official updates.
- Check in on neighbors to make sure there are no injuries or significant damages.
By staying informed, taking proactive measures, and knowing what to do when high winds strike, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property.
For more information on staying safe during high wind events, visit the following resources:
Businesses Impacted by U.S. Highway 95 Closure may be Eligible for Assistance
Businesses Impacted by U.S. Highway 95 Closure may be Eligible for Assistance
BOISE – Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is gathering information from non-farm small businesses and non-profit organizations whose operations were disrupted by the March 16 closure of U.S. Highway 95 between Council and New Meadows due to a landslide. This information will help determine whether impacted entities may be eligible for disaster assistance through low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Heavy rainfall on March 16 triggered a landslide that caused several hundred feet of roadway shoulder to give way, forcing the highway’s closure. Since then, the Idaho Transportation Department has been working to safely restore access. The highway is expected to reopen in early May once repairs are completed. In the meantime, drivers are encouraged to use State Highway 55 as an alternate route.
IOEM is in close coordination with the SBA to evaluate the potential for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program. If approved following a disaster declaration request by Governor Brad Little, the program would make low-interest loans available to qualifying small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and most private non-profit organizations. These loans are intended to help cover ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met due to the disruption caused by the closure.
To request the declaration, the State of Idaho will need five or more qualifying EIDL worksheets from small businesses impacted by the closure. Businesses that have experienced economic losses, whether actual or estimated due to the ongoing closure, are encouraged to submit a worksheet, even if they do not intend to apply for a loan. This information is critical to demonstrate the extent of the economic impact and determine eligibility for federal assistance.
The worksheet may be found on IOEM’s website at ioem.idaho.gov/SBA. Forms can be downloaded and sent by email to jdick@imd.idaho.gov, by fax to 208.422.3044, or mailed directly to:
ATTN: Jarod Dick
4040 Guard St., Bldg. 600
Boise, ID 83705
Please note the EIDL worksheet is not a loan application; it is intended for businesses to report losses so a declaration request may be considered.
Farms and ranches are not eligible for the SBA program.
Stay Prepared for Severe Weather in Idaho
We all know the age-old saying, “April showers bring May flowers.” With spring officially here, Idaho may experience more unpredictable – and sometimes dangerous – weather. Spring storms can bring heavy rain, hail, thunderstorms, flooding, and more. Some of these weather patterns can also lead to power outages, making preparedness essential.
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management encourages Idahoans to take steps now to stay safe and protect their loved ones when severe weather strikes.
What is Severe Weather?
Severe weather refers to atmospheric disturbances that produce hazardous conditions, including strong winds, large hail, thunderstorms, tornadoes, heavy rain, snow, freezing rain, or a combination of these elements.
- Severe Thunderstorms: Storms that produce hail one inch or larger in diameter or wind gusts over 58 mph. Hail this size can damage vehicles, roofs, and crops, while strong winds can break large branches, knock over trees, and cause structural damage. Some severe thunderstorms can produce hail larger than softballs or winds exceeding 100 mph.
- Hail: Solid ice that forms inside thunderstorm updrafts. Hail can damage homes, vehicles, aircraft, and crops, and can be dangerous to people and livestock.
- High Winds: These can occur with severe thunderstorms, strong weather systems, or as winds flow down mountain slopes. Sustained winds of 40–50 mph can cause isolated damage, while higher speeds can result in widespread destruction.
- Flooding: One of the most common and costly natural disasters, flooding can happen anywhere. Whether caused by overflowing rivers, heavy rainfall, or rapid snowmelt, even a few inches of water can cause severe damage to homes and pose serious risks to life.
- Tornadoes: A violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can completely destroy well-built structures, uproot trees, and turn objects into deadly projectiles. While rare, Idaho has experienced tornadoes triggered by high winds and thunderstorms.
How to Stay Safe During These Hazards
Thunder and Lighting Storms
- Secure or bring in outdoor items and trim trees near your home.
- When thunder roars, go indoors. If you see lightning or hear thunder, seek shelter inside a sturdy building. Stay away from windows and avoid using running water or electronics.
- If shelter isn’t available, a vehicle with a metal roof (turned off, with windows closed) is safer than remaining outside.
Heavy Rain, Flood, and Hail
- Understand your flood risk. Visit the Idaho Map to find your flood zone.
- Drive with caution. Slow down to avoid hydroplaning or sliding on hail-covered streets.
- Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Never drive through flooded roads – just six inches of water can stall a car, and one foot can carry it away.
- Follow official instructions. Evacuate if directed and obey road closures and caution signs.
High Winds
- Seek shelter in a safe, sturdy building and stay away from windows and doors.
- If driving, stop at a safe location. Do not park under overpasses, trees, or power lines.
- Avoid downed power lines and anything that may be in contact with them.
Tornadoes
- The safest place during a tornado is a basement. If unavailable, go to the lowest floor in a small interior room, such as a closet or bathroom, away from windows.
- Protect yourself by covering your head and neck with a mattress or sturdy object.
- If caught outside, do not try to outrun a tornado. Instead, lie in a ditch or culvert and cover your head.
Being Prepared Before a Severe Storm Strikes
Severe weather can develop quickly, but taking small steps now can make a big difference later.
Start with:
- Making an emergency plan
- Building an emergency supply kit
- Staying informed through alerts and trusted news sources
Preparation is protection. Stay connected with IOEM on Facebook and X (Twitter) for up-to-date information, resources, and safety tips year-round. You can also stay up to date on current weather forecasts, including situations where severe weather is forecast, by visiting weather.gov.