As a part of our weather unit this trimester, we chatted with meteorologist Steve Runnels from the National Weather Service this morning. It was so neat to learn from an expert in the field! Mr. Runnels first taught students about the instruments he uses to predict the weather. The National Weather Service located in Springfield sends a weather balloon into the atmosphere twice a day to collect data!
Next, Mr. Runnels taught us about severe weather that is common in our area, and strategies to stay safe in different types of severe weather. We practiced saying “If thunder roars, go indoors.” and “Turn around, don’t drown.” to help us remember important tips for staying safe in storms and floods. We happened to have practiced a tornado drill this morning just before our call with Mr. Runnels, so we were familiar with what to do when there is a tornado warning while at school. Mr. Runnels gave first graders a bit of homework to continue their learning – chat with their family about the safest place in their home to go during a tornado!
Finally, Mr. Runnels answered some student questions!
“How do tornadoes form?”
“When was the first tornado?”
“Do you still need to duck and cover if you have a tornado shelter in your home?”
“What is a tsunami and do they happen where we live?”
Such interesting information! Thanks, Mr. Runnels!
