Richmond activates Emergency Operations Center for severe weather

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The city of Richmond will activate its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on Monday morning ahead of the severe weather.

On Sunday, March 15, the city of Richmond announced that, as it monitors the severe weather expected to hit Monday, it will activate its EOC starting on Monday morning.

The EOC will serve as a place for city agencies. It will also facilitate the coordination of resources, effective communication and implement plans to solve any problem that arises, according to the release.

The city of Richmond is encouraging community members to review tornado safety tips and to prepare for the severe weather event:

• Before the storm - Find a safe shelter location, such as a basement or interior room on a low level away from windows and stay informed by checking weather alerts.
• During the storm - Immediately move to a safe location if a warning is issued and make sure to protect your head and neck.
• After the storm - Avoid any downed power lines and damaged structures and follow guidance from local officials.

The Salvation Army Inclement Weather Shelter, located at 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue, will be open from the night of Sunday, March 15 through Tuesday, March 17.

Additionally, the Main Library, located at 101 E Franklin Street, will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and can be used as a tornado and severe weather shelter, per the release.

For more information, visit the city of Richmond's website here.

For the most up-to-date weather alerts, click here or visit our StormTracker8 weather page.