Social Distancing May Not Be Possible in Shelters
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When the skies turn dark, residents may seek public storm shelters
City Announces Storm Shelters
There are four public storm shelters in Watonga. One is at the elementary school which is opened by a member or staff of the Watonga Police Department at 816 N. Wikoff – west door; one at the high school 1202 Eagle Lane, Middle school entrance, opened by a member or staff of the Blaine County Sheriff’s Department; one at the Christian Church at 400 North Noble south door and one at the First Baptist Church at 301 North Noble Ave, south double door.
Residents are reminded no smoking or pets are allowed in the shelters. Those entering shelters should be aware there may be no room for social distancing and may consider private shelters instead. At First Baptist, those entering the shelter may be checked for signs of the Covid-19 virus and sheltered separately in that location. All other public shelters are enter at your own risk as far as the virus is concerned.
Watonga Fire Chief and city emergency management director Robert Daughtery recommended that if anyone seeking shelter feels ill or has symptoms of the virus, they should notify the shelter director.
A tornado watch is issued when severe weather is possible. Residents should check weather updates, know where to seek shelter and monitor sky conditions. Cell phone apps are readily available for weather updates.
A tornado warning is issued when severe weather is imminent. Residents should seek shelter immediately, keep abreast of updates and seek further information. In Watonga, the storm sirens are sounded when a spotter has visual verification of a tornado.