Ask the Fire Chief: Severe Weather

Fire Chief Herbert Griffin will answer your questions about the Raleigh Fire Department, just ask.

Question: Severe weather season starts soon. Just a few weeks before hurricane season begins in June, the month of May averages more tornados in North Carolina than any other month. How does the Raleigh Fire Department prepare to respond and maintain service operations during severe weather?

Answer: Tornados can be large-in-scale events with significant impact that test a fire department’s response capability. Through coordinated efforts the Raleigh Fire Department’s preparedness plan includes communication, planning efforts, training, empowerment and diagnostic decision-making. Every day, RFD keeps its equipment and personnel in a state of readiness. However, when severe weather is forecast, extra care is taken to see that special equipment and supplies are on hand and ready if needed.  



Key to a successful response to tornadoes and other severe weather incidents is the fact that these events are rarely a total surprise. Prediction information allows for realistic planning for a coordinated emergency response. The National Weather Service and Severe Storm prediction Center (SPC) are excellent resources when agencies face severe weather incidents.

Read the Ask the Fire Chief question from the December issue of Raleigh Fire News.