Why This Outdated Piece Of Technology Is Making A Comeback In Michigan

For fans of a Midwest thunderstorm, there has been no shortage of them the last couple of years. Michigan has seen a large increase in the average number of severe storms each year, with spring becoming more volatile in recent years.

Studies have shown that "Tornado Alley" is moving closer to the Midwest, with weather conditions that generate severe weather becoming more common. This was evidenced by last year's tornado total being the 3rd-highest on record for Michigan, and by the tornado outbreak that included a devastating EF3 tornado that swept through Union City earlier this year.

Severe weather can cause power outages and/or loss of cell service in your area, which is why, with Michigan experiencing more severe weather, it's wise to have reliable alternatives ready to stay informed about any weather events in your area. One of these pieces of technology, which has been in my house for three generations, is more reliable than a cell phone: a weather radio.

Weather Radios & Why They're Important

Weather radios provide a reliable, cordless source of information that tunes in to the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR), a 24/7 radio that broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts, and other information regarding hazardous conditions. The NWR covers almost all of the USA.

READ MORE: Michigan's First Tornado Emergency - What Is it?

The NWR, at its core, has changed little since the early 2000s, and newer models, like the one below, are battery or AC-powered and can hold a charge long after power is lost. This is what makes these so essential during a storm. Most weather radios range from $30 - $50, an inexpensive purchase that could save your life.

The radio below is the Forecaster/AC, a weather radio I listened to throughout my childhood. It was my grandpa's, then my mom's, and now it's mine. It still works and was a savior for us out on the farm. We were in a very remote & rural place, and having this was our only reliable source of information.

Finding Your NWR Station

Different frequencies reach different parts of the state. West Michigan has three stations (Plainwell, West Olive, and Cannonsburg) that provide crucial information. Many of these stations overlap, so if one frequency doesn't work, try another. 

Plainwell

Call Sign: WWF34

Frequency: 162.475 MHz

Coverage (39 miles): Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, Van Buren

West Olive

Call Sign: WXN99

Frequency: 162.425 MHz

Coverage (21 miles): Allegan, Muskegon, Ottawa

Cannonsburg

Call Sign: WZ2560

Frequency: 162.550

Coverage (10 miles): Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Montcalm, Ottawa