News Taffy

As most of you know, the weather in Jonesboro – and across much of the Midwest for that matter – is predicted to be extremely dangerous this afternoon and evening. Tornado and storm watches have been issued for Craighead County and much of the surrounding area, which is probably why the Discovery Channel’s “Storm Chasers” have been recently spotted around Jonesboro. (See photos.) For more about these daredevils, head here.

Because of the severity of the rapidly approaching storms, many local businesses are closing, and most – if not all – events have been cancelled.

If a warning is issued, please remember these safety tips:
* In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement or a safe room.
* If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture.
* Stay away from windows.
* Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead leave it immediately.
* If caught outside or in a vehicle, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression.
* Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned.

For by-the-second updates, follow @Region8News, @wxsarah and @ryanvaughan on twitter.

Stay safe.

-Audrey Hanes

(Photos provided courtesy of Ashley Anderson.)