In 2010, there were 373 natural disasters that killed more than 295,000 people--the deadliest year for natural disasters in at least two decades. If such numbers seem frightening, you can find some solace in CNN/Headline News meteorologist Bonnie Schneider's Extreme Weather. After fielding questions via social media platforms about the science behind extreme conditions and how to survive in worrisome weather, Schneider decided to write a well-researched, easy-to-understand guide to help keep people and pets safe in weather emergencies.
She addresses all of the natural disasters listed in the book's subtitle, A Guide to Surviving Flash Floods, Tornadoes, Hurricanes, Heat Waves, Snowstorms, Tsunamis and Other Natural Disasters, plus a few more, explaining them in detail, often offering firsthand testimonials. She has recommendations for handling disaster preparation, home and property protection, emergency evacuation and pet safety. She also explains how to use social media in natural disasters, how to develop a personal disaster plan and how to acquire emergency supplies for people and pets.
The appealing format of Extreme Weather includes bullet-pointed lists, testimonials offset in italics and the most important information in bold. Whether you're intrigued enough by extreme weather conditions to read the book from start to finish or choose to study the chapters that involve natural disasters that are more likely to occur close to home, Schneider's handbook has the potential to save lives. --Roni K. Devlin, owner of Literary Life Bookstore & More