Sioux City Times

HULL, IOWA – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) has called upon Iowans to take necessary precautions during National Severe Weather Awareness Week. In a statement, Feenstra emphasized the importance of preparedness in the face of severe weather conditions.

Feenstra urged citizens to proactively protect themselves and their families, stating, "During National Severe Weather Awareness Week, I encourage all Iowans to take precautions today to keep themselves and their families safe when storms and inclement weather undoubtedly strike. Stocking up on bottled water, keeping flashlights and batteries in accessible areas, and having an emergency plan are all important items to consider."

The Congressman also highlighted his efforts at the federal level to support the National Weather Service in delivering timely updates to the public and relevant stakeholders. Feenstra expressed concern over the current state of the National Weather Service's communication network, describing it as "old, outdated, and unreliable."

To address this issue, Feenstra disclosed that he introduced legislation aimed at replacing the NWS chat system with a more dependable and consistent platform. He shared, "At the federal level, I’m also working to ensure that the National Weather Service has the tools and resources that it needs to provide timely updates to broadcasters, emergency managers, and the public."

Drawing from his personal experiences as a father and a former storm watcher, Feenstra underscored the significance of receiving timely and accurate information during severe weather events. He remarked, "As a father of four and a former storm watcher during my time as City Administrator of Hull, keeping our families safe is a top priority for me. By ensuring that our communities receive time-sensitive information from trusted sources, we can appropriately respond to unpredictable weather and save lives."