Cheyenne County Hospital is now Storm Ready

Americans live in the most severe weather-prone country on Earth. Some 98 percent of all Presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Being part of a Weather-Ready Nation includes preparing a community for its increasing vulnerability to extreme weather and water events. The National Weather Service (NWS) “StormReady” program ensures America's communities are armed with communication and safety skills needed to save lives and property--before, during and after an event. Due to hard work, a proactive nature, and a dedication to the local community, the officials of the Cheyenne County Hospital deserve to be honored. Therefore, on March 5th, 2024, the NWS office in Goodland, Kansas will recognize Cheyenne County Hospital in St. Francis, Kansas as an official StormReady entity.

StormReady is a voluntary program that helps the entire county, from the mayors to emergency management, business leaders and civic groups, strengthen local safety programs before hazardous weather strikes. Sara Houtman, EP Manager at the hospital, completed the application in late 2023. Part of the process included a site visit to the hospital by NWS Goodland. The review process was completed thereafter with the official certification received on January 22nd. The StormReady certification is the result of the vision, leadership, and tireless work of the staff at the Cheyenne County Hospital.

The hospital will be considered a StormReady entity for four full years, and can re-apply for the same credit in 2028. A special ceremony will take place in at the Cheyenne County Clinic on Tuesday, March 5th to recognize Cheyenne County Hospital for their accomplishment.

The NWS would like to thank all staff at Cheyenne County Hospital for their dedication toward protecting the staff, visitors, and patients of the hospital from the dangerous weather that strikes every year! You are being recognized because of your outstanding efforts.

For more information, please contact Jesse Lundquist at NWS Goodland. To see a list of the almost 3,300 StormReady Counties/Communities across the United States, please visit the following address on the Internet: https://www.weather.gov/stormready/communities