Shawn Harley stresses “Stay Safe-Be Weather Alert”

The GFWC Jackson Woman’s Club met on April 1, 2025, at the Breathitt County Senior Citizens Center. President Jackie Howard presided.

Guest speaker Shawn Harley, a retired meteorologist with the Jackson National Weather Service (NWS), related his meteorological experiences, mentioned the main mission of the National Weather Service, and stressed the necessity of severe weather preparedness.

Joining the Jackson National Weather Service in 1996, Shawn noted, over the years, involvement with disastrous weather events such as severe flooding, tornadic outbreaks, and damaging winds. Stating that the Jackson National Weather Service was established in 1977 due to severe area flooding and now serves thirty-three counties in Eastern Kentucky, its main mission is to protect life and property.

Shawn also stressed the necessity of being prepared for severe weather. He mentioned means of receiving weather alerts and warnings such as NOAA Weather radio, television,

And radio, word of mouth, and social media. Also, knowing one’s safe place and having an emergency kit are steps needed for preparedness. He explained key weather terms such as watch, a warning, and flash flooding. He summed up by stating “Stay Safe-Be Weather Alert!”

In the business session, Jackson Woman’s Club recognitions at the GFWC Kentucky Convention were announced: Poetry-Susan Harley-1st place; Women’s History and Resource-1st; High Five Award-Susan Harley; Fundraising-2nd; Enviroment-1st; Civic Engagment-1st; Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness and Prevention-2nd; Press Book-1st; the Legislative Action Center was discussed; the Jackson Woman’s Club Memorial Scholarship information is online; items are being collected for Hazard Safe House and Care Cottage; Pinwheels have been placed on courthouse lawn designating April as Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention month; Walking Club has ended with awards presented; 8th grade citizenship awards will be presented at graduation and honors ceremonies; and GFWC Kentucky Federation Day is April 24, 2025.

The next scheduled Jackson Woman’s Club meeting is May 6, 2025 at the Breathitt County Senior Citizens Center.