Lafayette County Opens Storm Shelters Ahead of Severe Weather

Lafayette County officials have announced that storm shelter locations are open across the area as severe weather approaches. The Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to know where to seek safety before the storms arrive.

Shelters include fire department stations, community centers, and public facilities. Fire stations are located at 50 County Road 1032, 599 Highway 310, 254 Highway 30, and other sites throughout the county. Community centers such as the Taylor Community Center and Gordon Community Center are also designated shelters, along with the Lafayette County Justice Court Complex and several city of Oxford locations, including the Oxford Utilities Parking Lot and Oxford Fire Department stations.

Officials advise residents to seek shelter immediately if a tornado warning is issued. A tornado warning indicates a confirmed tornado or radar evidence, and residents should leave shelters without delay. A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornado development, and residents should prepare and identify their nearest shelter now.

Before severe weather season, residents should locate their closest shelter and prepare a go-bag with medications, water, and a phone charger. It is crucial to arrive at shelters before storms arrive, as access may become unsafe once severe weather begins. Mobile and manufactured home residents are advised to evacuate to sturdy shelters at the first sign of a tornado watch or warning, as these homes offer no protection from tornadoes or severe thunderstorms.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through multiple channels, including the National Weather Service and Lafayette County social media accounts. For a map of shelter locations, visit https://sites.google.com/view/lafayettecountycommunitystorms/home. In emergencies, always call 911.

Source: Original Article