HELP US HELP OTHERS: Project195 is raising $60,000 in 60 days for five new volunteer only hostels for the midwest tornado region clean up. Help us rebuild and clean up! Creating 5 volunteer only hostels in the midwest tornado region would allow a low cost alternative to volunteers. Additionally, Project195 will set them up with local projects to work on. We have successfully done this in Joplin, where Project195 has had two very successful volunteer only hostels for almost a year now. All money goes directly to funding hostels, working to clean up with our neighbors in the midwest. We also would love volunteers!

If we can get 1000 people to donate $60, or 3000 people to donate $20, or 10,000 people to donate $6, we can meet our goal and really make a dent in the clean up and rebuilding of the midwest tornado region. It’s very important that we help those people. for one day, we may need that kind of help. Being a good neighbor means showing up.

DONATE TO OUR INDIEGOGO CAMPAIGN

Project195 will be speaking to Ridgewood High School “Project Interact” students and parents on  Tuesday April 17th, 2012.

Topics will include:

• Getting the most out of the volunteer experience.
• Humanitarian  Relief and how to help.
• Do’s and Don’ts of volunteering.

Recent developments regarding Natural Disasters in the United States.

Contact Ridgewood High School 201-670-2700

or Project195  888-410-5122

Rutgers University, Shawnee State, and many many others!

Please pass it along, and come join us in Joplin, Missouri and stay with us at Joplin House or Joplin House II!

Thanks,

Project195 Team

The Georgia Emergency Management Agency reported the numbers as crews continue to assess damage from Friday’s storms.

The National Weather Service has confirmed at least three tornadoes in Georgia.

They included an EF-3 tornado with winds of 165 mph in Haralson and Paulding counties; another EF-3 twister with winds of 140 mph in Lowndes and Lanier counties in south Georgia; and an EF-1 tornado in Cobb County, north of Atlanta.

Nationwide, violent storms struck in at least a dozen states, killing 19 people in five states. One of those was 83-year-old Patricia Barnette in Alpharetta, killed when she sought shelter in a storm drain and was washed away by the downpour.

On radar, the thunderstorm appeared to be weakening.

It had been hours since the storm produced two brief, weak tornadoes in Reno County, and spotters reported no signs of funnels as darkness shrouded the Kansas plains Tuesday night.

Because rotation in the storm appeared to be weakening, forecasters in the Topeka branch of the National Weather Service chose not to extend a tornado warning for Morris County into neighboring Wabaunsee County.

That meant the only tornado siren in tiny Harveyville was never activated, and the town was hit without warning.

“The radar didn’t show rotation until it was directly over town,” said Chad Omitt, meteorologist in charge of the weather service’s Topeka branch. “It just makes us sick.”

The tornado, rated an EF-2 with maximum winds of 130 mph, killed one person and injured at least 11 others in Harveyville. An estimated 40 percent of the town of about 250 was damaged or destroyed by the tornado, which was on the ground for about five miles and was at most 150 yards wide.

It touched down a mile southwest of Harveyville and raced toward the town at 60 mph. That meant it struck the west side of town in less than a minute.

“It was a rain-wrapped tornado – at night,” Omitt said. “Nobody would have seen it.”

Four minutes before the tornado touched down, the private forecasting service AccuWeather issued a tornado warning for two clients in the area: Westar and the Kansas Turnpike Authority.

“We were watching that cell because it had been persistently having tornadic signatures,” said Mike Smith, senior vice president for AccuWeather Enterprise Solutions, based in Wichita.

Along with producing two tornadoes in Reno County, the cell had strengthened over Marion and Chase counties to the point that the Wichita branch of the Weather Service issued a tornado warning that included the caution: “The potential for a large tornado is high!”

Strong thunderstorms typically rely on the atmospheric instability fed by sunlight and weaken after sunset. But meteorologists said this storm was able to stay strong – and even intensify – at night because there was so much wind shear in the atmosphere that night. Wind shear is the amount of rotation in the winds at various levels.

Strong wind shear can create favorable conditions for tornadoes even when other ingredients commonly connected to twisters may seem insufficient, Omitt said. It can also mean that small tornadoes, such as the ones that hit Harveyville and Harrisburg, Ill., before dawn on Wednesday, can nonetheless be powerful.

“It’s capable of producing very intense, very small tornadoes,” Omitt said. “These are the types of storms that are extremely difficult to detect.”

Damage assessment surveys have revealed six tornadoes touched down in Kansas on Tuesday – four more than initially thought. Two were northwest of Concordia, not far from Belleville.

Had his office received those reports that night, Omitt said, meteorologists in the Topeka office likely would have issued a tornado warning for the storm that eventually struck Harveyville because the reports demonstrated the system’s capabilities.

“It was not an easy night, that’s for sure,” said Darrel Smith, information technology officer for the Topeka office.

Weather service officials in the Topeka office are conducting a review of the data collected and decisions made Tuesday night.

“You do that with every event,” Smith said. “‘What did we do wrong? Did we miss any signs?’ That will continue on for the next several weeks.”

One of the most difficult aspects of the Harveyville tornado was how quickly everything happened. The storm went from looking like a thunderstorm morphing into a long line of storms in one radar scan to producing a tornado that was hammering Harveyville in the next scan four minutes later. One the next scan, the tornado was gone.

“Events like this bother the heck out of us,” Omitt said.

Among the lessons of Harveyville, he said, is to give more weight to what strong wind shear is capable of.

Smith said he doesn’t fault the meteorologists in the Topeka office for their decisions. They were hampered by the slow radar scans. Branches in Kansas City and Wichita have access to high-resolution radars used by the Federal Aviation Administration, which scan much more often, he said.

For areas that can’t be covered by the high-resolution radars – such as Harveyville – the Weather Service should adjust branch radars so they scan more frequently than every four minutes, Smith said.

“We do know how to make the radars run faster and get more data and not miss things like what happened in Harveyville,” he said.

Carissa Westfall helps salvage products from Nature's Sunshine Health Foods in Branson

A total of five tornadoes of EF-2 intensity or higher were surveyed by the National Weather Service (NWS) as a result of the severe weather outbreak of March 2, 2012 across far eastern Tennessee and along the Tennessee / North Carolina border. One of the tornadoes was rated EF-3 intensity, while the other four were rated EF-2 intensity.

The lone EF-3 tornado took place in Harrison (in Hamilton County, just to the Northeast of Chattanooga), and tracked East/Northeastward into adjacent portions of Bradley County. The total path length was 25.9 miles, with maximum winds estimated at 165 mph. The maximum path width was 300 yards.
I can’t stress enough the point regarding choosing a contractor carefully – and never handing over money until the job is complete. Unfortunately, there are too many people out there willing to take advantage of this type of situation. This obviously applies to all of the areas stricken with tornado damage earlier in the month, not just the West Liberty area.

3/9/12, 5pm CST:
The West Liberty school district has announced that classes will resume on March 19th. The Elementary school, district headquarters and many vehicles were heavily damaged or destroyed. A vacant factory near the Elementary School is being converted into a temporary location where elementary classes can be held, as well as temporary housing for some of the district offices as well. The full story from the courier-journal can be found here.
3/7/12, 3pm CST:
Residents of West Liberty were being allowed back into most areas of town as of today, however the The Kentucky Department of Emergency Management cautions residents that many areas are still not safe due to debris, some of which could include potentially hazardous materials.

Vehicles wishing to enter the city are required to pass through a checkpoint, and must be able to show residency to be allowed in. Officials encourage folks to come in groups and car pool if possible, so as to limit the number of vehicles that can safely pass through heavily damaged areas.

Banks were also opening temporary locations today, allowing customers to withdraw up to $500.00 at one time:

-Commercial Bank has a temporary location at 151 University Drive. They also plan to open a 2nd temporary location near the IGA in Index tomorrow (Wednesday, 3/7/12).

-Citizens Bank customers can use branches located in Morehead, Owingsville and Sharpsburg.

-Bank of the Mountains customers can use their non-downtown location in West Liberty, as well as their location in Ezel.

The total path length of the West Liberty tornado has been extended to 95 miles, as a survey across the West Virginia border indicates a preliminary ending point to the Southwest of Charleston. It is possible that the ending point may be 10 to 15 miles further East/Northeast as well, and that possibility is still being surveyed.

3/4/12, 7am CST:

The NWS survey team from the Jackson, KY office has completed its survey on the West Liberty tornado, up to a point on the East side of West Liberty. Presumably today they will finish up with the Eastern end of the track, which is shown on the image above.

The survey estimates the beginning point took place about 2 miles Southwest of Mariba in Menifee County at approximately 5:39 PM EST. The path length, so far, amounts to 34 miles with a maximum width in the damage path of 1 mile.

As I mentioned yesterday evening, the preliminary NWS survey rating of the tornado is EF-3 intensity, and the survey cites “estimated peak winds of 140 mph”. On the operational scale of EF-intensity, an EF-3 tornado is described as producing winds in the range of 136-165 mph.

Hydroponic growing system, constructed of Bamboo and Coconuts, using Coconut husk (Coir) as a growing media. Worm casting and Humas tea used as fertilizer.

If you are located in warmer climes, this is an ideal natural growing option, costing little money and using normally discarded items. All of the set up is 100% biodegradable.

One of the major issues in combating instability and famine in the developing world is the cost needed to bring a sustainable food source to the people in need. There are literally hundreds of low cost sustainable options,

that are available to be implemented on nearly every continent. Imagine, a world without hunger? It can be done, all it takes is the will.

Join Project195 today, and become part of the growing army of compassionate, and pro active world citizens looking to make life for many less of a challenge.

Ellenboro, North Carolina

Chilton County, Alabama

Harveyville, Kansas

Branson, Missouri

Harrisburg, Illinois

Marysville, Indiana

West Liberty, Kentucky

Buffalo, Missouri

Phillipsburg, Missouri

Asherville, Missouri

Metropolis, Illinois

Elizabethtown, Kentucky

Clarkson, Kentucky

Hodgenville, Kentucky

Smithville, Tennessee

A severe weather system that started in Central Nebraska and Central Kansas brought straight-line winds, golfball-size hail, torrential rain, and significant tornadoes to Kansas’ mid-section. There was a small confirmed tornado touchdown near North Platte – the first tornado officially recorded in that state in the month of February since record keeping began in 1950. Late on February 28, a strong EF2 tornado struck the small town of Harveyville, Kansas near Topeka, injuring 9 people including 2 critically, with one person later dying of his injuries. The town’s only church was completely destroyed, several homes received moderate to severe damage, and every building in the small community received a form of damage. Other tornado touchdowns were reported near Hutchinson, Kansas earlier in the day. As the storms moved into Missouri and Arkansas overnight, the threat grew stronger and at 3:00 am CST on February 29, Branson, Missouri was reporting severe damage to the town from an EF2 tornado with homes destroyed and several houses sustaining severe damage as the storms rocketed through the Missouri/Arkansas border corridor at more than 60 mph (95 km/h). Numerous people were injured there. Two other deaths occurred in southwestern Missouri, due to strong tornadoes, one of which was an EF3.

The storms continued to grow stronger as they progressed eastward and they impacted Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio on February 29. A moderate risk of severe weather was issued, with strong tornadoes mentioned as possible. One was quickly reported south of Evansville, Indiana. An EF4 tornado slammed into Harrisburg, Illinois early that morning. The southern part of the city was heavily damaged with houses and businesses destroyed, many of which were completely leveled. At least six people were killed by that tornado.Other severe damage, due to two tornadoes, were reported in Middle Tennessee east of  Nashville that afternoon, where three people were killed.

Athens, Alabama

Verbena, Alabama

Ooltewah, Tennessee

Delano, Tennessee

Tellico Plains, Tennessee

Rickman, Tennessee

New Peakin to Chelsea, Indiana

Holton, Indiana

Crittenden, Kentucky

Peach Grove, Kentucky/ Moscow, Ohio

Wellington, Kentucky

Blaine, Kentucky

Salyersville, Kentucky to Gray Eagle, West Virginia

East Bernstadt, Kentucky

Milton, Kentucky

Buchanan, Georgia

Harrisburg to North Charlotte, North Carolina

An unprecedented tornado outbreak  struck the region less than 72 hours prior to this storm, killing 13 people, including 6 inHarrisburg, Illinois alone, the result of an F4 Tornado. A moderate risk of severe weather was issued for March 2 a day in advance for a large area from near Tuscaloosa, Alabama to Dayton, Ohio as an intense storm system tracked across the region in a very high shear environment.Intense tornadoes were possible.On the morning of March 2, it was upgraded and ahigh risk of severe weather was issued for Middle Tennessee and CentralKentucky, later extended into Central and Southern Indiana, and Southern Ohio.The Storm Prediction Center mentioned the potential for significant tornadoes. Multiple P.D.S. tornado watches were issued shortly thereafter.

The outbreak began fairly early in the morning, with an initial round of storms and tornadoes associated with the incoming warm front attached to a rapidly deepening low pressure area over the Central Great Lakes.The initial round of storms allowed for a strong warm air mass to enter the region, with temperatures rising to near record levels for early March and instability combining with extreme wind shear, resulting in a highly volatile air mass.As a result, a second, much larger broken line of discrete supercells developed and followed the Ohio River, with additional storms developing farther south. During the afternoon, those cells tracked eastward across the Ohio Valley, passing near Louisville, Kentucky and south of Cincinnati, Ohio with devastating results.

As isolated activity developed farther south, intense super cells also formed in Central Kentucky in the late afternoon hours and tracked east into theEastern Mountain Coal Fields region before weakening as they reached West Virginia later that evening. That area had the highest wind shear that allowed the storms to spin violently, resulting in severe damage in several communities.

Rebuilding the Exterior:

Two-thirds of homeowners with property damaged in a disaster don’t have sufficient homeowners insurance coverage, says one study.

Another claims 64 percent of the homes in the U.S. — 48 million properties — don’t carry enough coverage to fully reconstruct the home if it’s destroyed.

Consumer Reports is advising homeowners to use this year’s natural disasters as a wake-up call.

“Ask your insurance agent for a customized estimate of your home’s replacement cost that accounts for its unique features, construction details, and age, as well as any costs due to local building-code requirements,” CR advises.

CR says you should reassess and update your homeowners insurance needs every few years and carry “guaranteed replacement cost” coverage. Insurers also offer “extended replacement cost” coverage which will extend your limit, if necessary, by 25 to 100 percent to cover any increases labor and materials costs. Also, a “law and ordinance” rider will pay the extra cost of complying with updated building codes.

Other CR advise includes:

• Get coverage for local risks. Standard policies don’t cover damage from floods, earthquakes, sinkholes and landslides. In some areas deductibles are up for wind damage from hurricanes, tornadoes or severe windstorms.

• Shop smart. Don’t shop for the best rate and then determine your needs. Know what coverage you need first then go comparison shopping. CR says annual premiums can vary widely. Check your state insurance regulator for rate comparisons as well as websites, including Insure.com, InsWeb and NetQuote.

Trim costs by taking on high deductibles; by buying all your insurance needs from one company; and by keeping your credit rating as high as possible. Also if your can’t afford catastrophic coverage, check with your state’s insurance of last resort program.

CR says, choose an insurance company rated “A” or “B” by Weiss Ratings available online at The Street.com

• Prevent losses. Retro-fit your home to better withstand the seismic forces of an earthquake, the gale forces of a hurricane or the burn threat of a wildfire . The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety offers more tips for reducing losses.

A detailed inventory with receipts, videos and photos will help smooth the claim procedure, should you need to file. The Insurance Information Institute will let you store your inventory for free.

• File smart claims. Don’t make claims for small losses if you have high deductibles or can afford to pay for the damage out of pocket. Make necessary repairs to stop further damage. Work closely, in a non-adversarial role, with your insurer. Consider the help of United Policyholders or the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters.

To get the full scoop, see Consumer Reports’ Money report “Insuring your home: Make sure your coverage stands up in a worst-case scenario.”

Furnishing a Home:

The average cost of furnishing a room in a home is approximately $750 to $1500.

disasters can be prepared for

Natural disasters can strike any time and any where. Although some areas are more prone to a certain type of event, no place on the map is immune. It is up to you ultimately to look out for your own safety as well as your family’s.

People affected by horrific weather-related events or other natural disasters can be on their own for several days. Many times there is little to no warning when these horrific displays of nature happen, so being prepared is not only responsible, but could very well save your life. It will also give rescuers more time helping those who are in worse shape than you.

pre-packed 3 day emergency kit

Hurricanes. Blizzards. Tornadoes. Floods. Ask anyone who has ever suffered through a natural disaster if they were fortunate enough to keep their home, the one thing that will come up will be how quickly the supplies in the home are quickly depleted. This article will help stave off the immediate need for assistance and help you and your family to survive and maintain a small measure of comfort. It will also, if necessary, give you the ability to travel to safety.

Making a disaster preparedness kits for each member of the family is not only a great way to examine what your needs may be in case of a disastrous event, but also it helps bring awareness on what you’ll be able to carry if necessary. This is very important because you may find yourself miles away from aid. Your kit should last at least 3 days, and should include food, water, and other supplies which we will cover later on. it should be in a water tight container f possible (Rubbermaid, Tupperware etc.) and remember SIZE does matter. Only pack what you can carry.

Clean drinking water is always the first thing on your list. You need at least one gallon of water per person per day. It doesn’t sound like too much, but one gallon of water weighs almost eight pounds! So, when you’re planning a three day pack realize that before you pack that first energy bar you’re carrying 25 lbs already.

Tap water which is treated works better than bottled or spring water, though you can treat those to make them suffice. Well water users should use their regular treatments. Water should be sealed in a tight container, in a cool and dry place. No matter which you decide to use, remember to switch out with fresh water every six months.

her own survival kit - kids love to be involved

When choosing food supplies, it comes down to which foods will give you the most bang for the buck, or weight, in this instance. Canned goods and ready-to-eat meals are a good choice, but can be heavy. A better choice maybe things like; peanut butter, a great source of protein. Crackers, granola bars, cereals and trail mix are also great choices. Why? Good caloric intake, and they preserve well. Other things for your “goodie bag of life” might include salt, pepper, sugar, instant coffee/tea. Don’t forget a manual can opener!!

Pre existing medical conditions must be taken into account when preparing yourself or your family. If possible try to keep fresh medication or treatments in your disaster kit. Check with your doctor or pharmacist in regards to storage of medicine whenever possible. Standard first aid supplies should be in your kit as well; bandages, gauze pads, cotton balls, safety pins, latex gloves.

emergency preparedness - you can do it!

Cleansing antibiotic ointments, germicidal soaps, baby wipes are all incredibly useful when emergency situations arise as you make your way to safety. Aspirin anti diarrheal medication, vitamins, and ipecac syrup are also very good things to have stowed away in your kit as well.

Other emergency supplies you may consider depending on how much you can carry. battery operated radio or tv. (with extra batteries) crank operated, duct tape, scissors, plastic sheeting, copies of important documents, cash,and or travelers checks, blankets, bedding or sleeping bags, change of clothes, something to do (book, game, etc.)

So is this a lot? Absolutely it is, but it is also is EVERYTHING you need to ensure survival. This is definitely not something you want to under pack pr over pack for, so see what works for you! See what weight you can carry, what’s too bulky, because it’s not something you want to find out after the fact.

If you’re looking for other sources of emergency survival information, you can try FEMA’s website, The American Red Cross, or right here at Project195, as we will always give plenty of information regarding this and other topics.