Storm Tracker team prioritizes community safety at Safety Town

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW)-- Over the past month, the Storm Tracker weather team has worked diligently to prioritize community safety and education.

Their outreach efforts aim to empower the next generation with the knowledge needed to stay safe during severe weather events.

As Weather-Ready Nation Ambassadors appointed by the National Weather Service, the team continues to bridge the gap between meteorologists, children, and the broader community.

On Wednesday, July 9, the entire Storm Tracker team visited Safety Town to give an educational presentation focused on weather preparedness and safety.

During the session, Chief Meteorologist Jared Shelton offered hands-on learning experiences, including a demonstration featuring real frozen hail, which fell in Buchanan County two years ago.

Meteorologist Payton Counts educated children on essential safety procedures during severe weather events such as tornadoes, flooding, and lightning.

Meteorologist Abigail McCluskey guided students through disaster preparedness, showing what to include in an emergency kit and identifying the safest locations to seek shelter during a tornado.

Community safety remains the top priority for the Storm Tracker team, which continues to take proactive steps to educate and protect residents as trusted Weather-Ready Nation Ambassadors.

Events like Safety Town not only teach vital safety skills but also build lasting connections between the Storm Tracker team and the community they serve.