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We often write in this space — probably four or five times a year — the importance of being able to get weather information quickly.

We’ll be honest that in writing it, it often feels like it falls on deaf ears. People understandably probably wonder if it’ll ever happen here.

And then, in the snap of our fingers, it did happen here. And it happened quickly.

It wasn’t just one tornado. It was two. Both on the ground, both at the same time. Both in Troup County. That’s about as real as it gets.

Sirens blared. Phone apps went nuts. And most of us went into our safe places to shelter for the storm.

If Thursday’s situation doesn’t make you take weather preparedness and having a plan seriously, we’re not sure what will. It was a real-life reminder of what can happen if you aren’t able to get the weather information you need. So, again, we urge you to have a plan. Know where your safe place is. Have a way to get accurate, real-time weather information. Don’t rely on the sirens alone. Be ready to react and react quickly.