LAWRENCE COUNTY — As severe weather begins to sweep through Southern Indiana, Lawrence County Emergency Management Director Valerie Luchauer is reminding residents that timely information is the best defense against unpredictable storms. Luchauer gave an update during Tuesday’s commissioner meeting.
The urgency comes after a recent round of dangerous weather that impacted neighboring regions. “We dodged the severe storms that hit Monroe County,” Luchauer noted, emphasizing that luck is not a long-term safety strategy. To bridge the gap between detection and notification, she is urging all residents to download the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department mobile app.
While television and radio remain vital, Luchauer stressed that mobile technology offers a speed advantage that can save lives. “The Sheriff’s Department app will alert residents to dangerous situations in real time faster than any news sources,” she said.
The free app, available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play, provides:
- Immediate Push Notifications: Receive severe weather warnings and emergency alerts the moment they are issued.
- Direct Communication: Access updated information straight from local law enforcement and emergency officials.
- Community Safety Tools: Submit anonymous tips and view the current inmate roster.
Officials remind the public that the app is for information and alerts only; always dial 911 for active emergencies.
Become the “Eyes and Ears” of the Weather Service
For those who want to take a more active role in community safety, the National Weather Service (NWS) is offering online SKYWARN® Spotter classes. These training sessions prepare volunteers to identify and report severe weather—such as tornadoes, hail, and high winds—directly to meteorologists.
Class Highlights:
- Cost: Free of charge and open to the public.
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
- Topics: Thunderstorm development, identifying cloud structures, and safe reporting procedures.
- Target Audience: Anyone 14 or older (youth should attend with an adult).
The NWS recommends that trained spotters retrain every two years to keep their skills sharp and stay updated on the latest reporting technologies.
