Banging the Drum: Getting the Attention of Decision Makers Prior to the Historic Inland Northwest Windstorm

In a region where windstorms are common during the winter season, the event that unfolded November 17, 2015 truly stands out as a historic one for eastern Washington and north Idaho. The perfect alignment of atmospheric conditions occurred for a high impact event. The National Weather Service (NWS) Office in Spokane, WA worked with county and city officials and the local media to warn of the imminent threat, but was it enough? This purpose of this presentation is to review the services provided and decisions made leading up to the windstorm. It will also identify successes and shortfalls in an effort to improve messaging prior to high impact events.