RCB Alert. On Saturday, August 17, an SMS with storm warnings was sent to people in nine provinces. Experts warn of possible flooding.
“Attention! Today (17.08) storms with heavy rain and strong winds. Possible flooding and power outages. Secure things that can be carried away by the wind” – RCB alert of this content was sent to recipients residing in the following voivodeships:
- Lodz,
- Świętokrzyskie,
- Subcarpathian,
- Lesser Poland,
- Silesian,
- Opole,
- Lower Silesia – counties: Dzierżoniów, Jelenia GoraKamienna Góra, Karkonosze, Kłodzko, Oleśnica, Oława, Strzelin, Świdnica, WalbrzychWalbrzych, WroclawWroclaw, Ząbkowice,
- Masovian – poviats: Lipski, Przysucha, RadomRadom, Szydłowiec, Zwoleń,
- Greater Poland – counties: Kępno, Ostrzeszów
How to prepare
Experts have called for preparing replacement lighting – flashlights with spare batteries, because the wind can damage power lines. It is also worth removing all objects from windowsills and yards that can be carried away by the wind, and ensuring the safety of your pets, especially those staying outside.
“Remember to repark your car in a safe place if you have parked it under trees,” RCB added. When driving, you should be especially careful, firstly because of the branches and trees that may break, and secondly because when leaving a sheltered road into an open space, there is a risk of your car being blown away.
In the event of a flood threat, experts advise listening to local radio or television for warnings and procedures. Don't forget to move valuables to upper floors of the building, move vehicles to non-threatened areas, and prepare sandbags. Phones should be charged at all times.
In cases that are or may be significant for safety, the fire department must be immediately informed by calling the emergency number 112.
What is an RCB alert?
RCB Alert is an SMS system for warning against threats. You do not need to sign up for an RCB alert. People who find themselves in the area of a potential life-threatening crisis situation will receive a short text message (SMS) on their mobile phone with information about the type of threat, its location, and the source of the warning. It does not matter which operator we have a contract with.
The amendment to the Telecommunications Law and certain other acts of 11 June 2018 imposes on all operators the obligation to immediately send a message to all users in the area specified by the RCB director. Messages are issued only in exceptional situations that may actually threaten human life and health.
Main image source: Shutterstock/RCB_RP