NOAA Weather Alerts Overview
Sometimes, it pays to know what is going on with the weather. This is where NOAA weather alerts come into play.
Many people are into protecting their homes and families. They spend money on high-tech alarm systems but forget the obvious.
The obvious is the weather is with you every day and sometimes the weather changes suddenly and dramatically and can cause major disruption to someone’s life.
The best way I know of to stay alerted to these sudden climate changes is to own a weather alert radio This is my best recommendation to you. You can take an investigative look at these highly popular and often purchased alert radios on Amazon.
While you are checking out NOAA weather alert radios, notice that they come equipped with many safety features.
These radios come in different colors, sizes, and are even available with battery back up power source.
In a hurry you can go to Amazon now to see some of these great choices
We took a look at these three models on Amazon.com. The Midland WR120, the Kaito KA500, and the Midland WR300. Here is a quick recap review of these three models.
All are highly sought out and purchased by consumers on Amazon. All three of these radios have well over 2000 reviews.
This means two things. Many times more customers have actually purchased as well as all are rated at 4.1 or greater for the 0-5 star rating system in Amazon.
They all feature S.A.M.E. programming which is (Specific Area Message Encoding).
Midland WR120 NOAA Weather Alert Radio
The Midland WR120
Features:
- SAME programming sounds an alert only when specific counties are threatened
- Receives 7 NOAA channels with flood, tornado, thunderstorm, and other warnings
- Battery powered backup
- 25-county memory system; has a 90 dB siren, voice alert, and flashing LED warning systems
- Built-in clock with alarm and snooze
- measures 6.0 x 1.5 x 5.0 inches
Kaito KA500 5-way Powered Solar Power
The Kaito KA500
Features the following
- 6-way powered with hand crank generator, solar panel, 3 AA batteries , 5V USB input, 5V AC/DC input with a wall power adapter , built-in NiMH replaceable and rechargeable battery pack
- Comprehensive coverage of AM, FM, 2-band shortwave and 7 pre-programmed NOAA weather channels
- 24/7 real-time weather forecast (USA and Canada ONLY) with PEAS (Public Emergency Alert System)
The Midland WR300
Features the following
- Receives All NOAA Weather Channels
- S.A.M.E. Technology
- AM/FM Radio with Clock and Alarm
- Memory system for 30 Counties
A Little Background
Weather information starts with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. The NOAA is an arm of the U.S. Department of Commerce.
NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards or NWR is a national network of radio stations that work in conjunction with the government.
NWR (National Weather Radio) covers all fifty states and all U.S. territories.
A great idea for some fun with this would be to turn the NOAA Weather Alerts into a science lesson for the children.
Using your weather alert radio you could set up a few selected alerts to show them how this all works.
For more information from us concerning children and weather information you may go to these pages to read our articles concerning children and weather.
Weather Stations For Kids-Your Ultimate Guide
Instruments to Build a Weather Station for Kids
Piquing Their Curiosity-Kids Weather Stations & Weather Information
Building Interest In Your Student For The Weather
Tips on Choosing the Best Weather Station For Kids To Use
I believe they’ll enjoy listening for the information which is provided 24 hours a day.
NWR Is Much More Than Weather
In addition to national weather service alerts, the network airs alerts about many emergencies. These include earthquakes, oil spills, AMBER alerts and terrorist attacks.
To receive NOAA Weather Alerts, one must have a special radio. Exactly, what is a NOAA weather alert radio?
This radio receives all the information from NOAA weather alert stations. You see some areas of the United States have special weather events where alerts could be very helpful to you.
You will be glad you have the radio if you live in areas like Tornado Alley or in California when wild fires are spreading.
A weather radio can be programmed to stay silent until NOAA Weather Alerts are issued. In the event of an alert, the radio gives a warning tone followed by detailed information.
S.A.M.E. programming which is (Specific Area Message Encoding) weather radios can be programmed to receive alerts that are only relevant to your area.
The Radio Is A Must
Unfortunately, terrorist attacks and natural disasters are dominating the news. A weather radio can save lives in these troubling times. For example, a homeowner could be alerted to mudslides in the area if they had a radio.
Residents with a radio were warned about the recent terrorist attack in New York City. This information was useful for anyone who lived nearby. Likewise, others will know to stay away from the dangerous area.
Last year’s hurricane season was devastating for residents of Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Owning a battery-operated weather radio protected many families during this time.
Learn What The Information Means
Teach the kids the difference between watches and warnings. A watch means an area could be in for a particular type of weather. Warnings are more serious than watches and residents should begin to take precautions.
For example, go to an emergency shelter if there is a tornado warning. Further, a flash flood warning means move to higher ground temporarily.
Buying A Radio
NOAA weather radios are available in a variety of styles and in a wide range of prices. One of the most valuable features is having a multiple power source. If the electricity is out, the radio should operate by battery.
Radios are available that include flashlights, beacons and other survival tools. Indeed, consumers can purchase a weather radio with a smart phone charger for less than fifty dollars. Fifty dollars is a small investment for something to protect the family.
