ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Airmen from the 97th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management flight held a briefing on March 20, 2025 at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma to inform local residents on how to prioritize readiness in order to respond to severe weather events, emphasizing safety and proactive measures.
“Our severe weather brief is to help inform people who are unfamiliar with tornadoes and the local area,” said Senior Airman Cynthia Quezada, 97th CES emergency management journeyman. “We brief on typical storm patterns, the difference between watches and warnings, and provide links to resources where people can find additional info and where they can find services on and off base."
Having an evacuation plan was a highlight of emergency management’s message to the public during their brief. Given that severe weather often affects several counties simultaneously, staying alert and being able to respond to local warnings is critical for residents in tornado alley.
Emergency management also prepares for severe weather by planning exercises, creating protective training, and developing responses to major accidents.
“My team works year-round in preparing the base to face any type of disaster, whether that is natural or man-made,” said Master Sgt. Jessica Gluth, 97th CES emergency management superintendent. “Additionally, we review the Installation Emergency Management Plan in coordination with all agencies to ensure we are ready regardless of the threat.”
With the Altus Air Power Stampede Open House and Air Show just around the corner, the 97th CES is standing ready to face any incident that could occur.
“We’re going to be making sure everything runs smoothly and in the event an emergency does kick off, we will be ready to support other teams to make sure they have the resources they need to respond effectively.” said Senior Airman Asher Taylor, 97th CES emergency management journeyman.