Kell West Regional Hospital

12/09/2025

Kell West Regional Hospital ended clinical operations on December 2, 2025, as United Regional moves forward with acquiring the property and facility for future use. Their plans include developing new health care services and expanding access to care for our community.

For 27 years, KWRH has been honored to serve the health care needs of this community alongside United Regional.

As we move into this next chapter, United Regional remains committed to delivering exceptional care and supporting our region through these transitions.

04/16/2025

Tornado

Tornadoes are one of the most destructive natural phenomena that can occur on our planet. These violent windstorms can cause immense damage to buildings, vehicles, and infrastructure, as well as cause loss of life. In this blog post, we will explore what tornadoes are, how they form, and the impacts they can have.

What is a tornado?

A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes are typically visible as a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud, but not all tornadoes are visible. Tornadoes can occur anywhere in the world, but they are most common in the United States, particularly in the Great Plains region, which is sometimes called "Tornado Alley."

How do tornadoes form?

Tornadoes form from powerful thunderstorms that have the right atmospheric conditions. These conditions include a warm, moist air mass colliding with a cold, dry air mass, creating instability in the atmosphere. This instability can cause the air to start rotating, and if it continues to rotate, a tornado can form.

Once a tornado has formed, it is sustained by the inflow of warm, moist air from the surface. This warm air rises rapidly, creating a low-pressure area near the ground, which draws in more warm air. The result is a powerful, rotating column of air that can cause massive destruction.

Impacts of tornadoes

Tornadoes can cause a wide range of impacts, from minor damage to complete destruction. The strength of a tornado is measured on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, which ranges from EF0 (weak) to EF5 (extremely strong). The impacts of a tornado depend on its strength, as well as its path and the population density of the area it affects.

The most immediate impact of a tornado is the damage it can cause to buildings, vehicles, and infrastructure. Tornadoes can rip roofs off houses, shatter windows, and topple power lines and trees. They can also create flying debris that can be deadly to anyone in its path.

Tornadoes can also cause economic impacts by disrupting transportation, damaging businesses, and causing power outages. The long-term impacts of tornadoes can include psychological trauma for those who experience them, as well as the loss of community and sense of safety.

Conclusion

Tornadoes are a powerful natural phenomenon that can cause immense destruction and loss of life. While we cannot prevent tornadoes from occurring, we can take steps to prepare for them and reduce their impact. This includes having a plan in place for when a tornado strikes, staying informed about weather conditions, and building structures that can withstand the force of a tornado. By taking these steps, we can minimize the impact of these devastating storms and keep ourselves and our communities safe.

kellwest.com

04/14/2025

Lightning Safety Measures

Lightning strikes in the United States about 25 million times a year killing approximately 20 people and severely injuring hundreds more. Although mostly occurring in the summers with thunderstorms, people can get struck at any time of the year.

After lightening rendered him unconscious via his umbrella in 1975 at the Western Open, Lee Trevino (pro golfer) later made a statement about what he would do differently if caught in another similar situation with a storm, and gave his legendary reply, saying he’d hold a 1-iron in the air because not even God can hit the club.

What You Need to Know.NO PLACE outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area!!.If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you..When you hear thunder, immediately move to safe shelter: a substantial building with electricity or plumbing or an enclosed, metal-topped vehicle with windows up..Stay in safe shelter at least 30 minutes after you hear the last sound of thunder.

Indoor Lightning Safety.Stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity..Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths and faucets..Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches..Do not lie on concrete floors, and do not lean against concrete walls.

Last Resort Outdoor Risk Reduction Tips.If you are caught outside with no safe shelter anywhere nearby the following actions may reduce your risk:.Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges or peaks.Never lie flat on the ground.Never shelter under an isolated tree.Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter
Immediately get out and away from ponds, lakes and other bodies of water.Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (barbed wire fences, power lines, windmills, etc.)

https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning
www.kellkareemergency.com

04/12/2025

Thunderstorms are a natural phenomenon that occurs when the atmosphere becomes unstable, usually as a result of a combination of heat, moisture, and atmospheric instability. Thunderstorms can be awe-inspiring and beautiful, but they can also be dangerous, causing flash floods, lightning strikes, strong winds, and tornadoes. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at thunderstorms and what causes them.

What is a Thunderstorm?

A thunderstorm is a type of weather phenomenon that occurs when warm, moist air rises rapidly into the atmosphere, creating cumulonimbus clouds. These clouds are characterized by their vertical development and can reach heights of up to 10 miles. As the air rises, it cools, and water droplets in the air condense, forming clouds. The rapid movement of the air molecules creates static electricity, which causes lightning and thunder.

Thunderstorms can occur anywhere in the world, but they are most common in areas with warm, moist air, such as tropical and subtropical regions. They can occur at any time of the year, but they are most common during the summer months.

Types of Thunderstorms

There are three types of thunderstorms: single-cell thunderstorms, multi-cell thunderstorms, and supercell thunderstorms.

Single-cell thunderstorms are the most common type of thunderstorm and are usually short-lived, lasting only a few hours. They are typically associated with hot, humid days and can produce lightning, thunder, and heavy rain.

Multi-cell thunderstorms are more complex and can last several hours. They are made up of clusters of individual thunderstorms, each with its own updraft and downdraft. These storms can produce heavy rain, strong winds, and hail.

Supercell thunderstorms are the most severe type of thunderstorm and are capable of producing tornadoes. They are characterized by a rotating updraft and can last for several hours. Supercell thunderstorms are rare but can be extremely dangerous.

Thunderstorm Safety Tips

Thunderstorms can be dangerous, and it's essential to take precautions to stay safe during a storm. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

If you hear thunder, go indoors or seek shelter immediately. Lightning can strike from as far as 10 miles away, even when the storm is not overhead.
Avoid using electronics or electrical appliances during a storm, as lightning strikes can cause power surges that can damage your devices.
Stay away from windows and doors during a storm, as strong winds and hail can break glass.
If you are driving during a storm, pull over to a safe location and wait for the storm to pass. Do not park under trees or other tall objects that can attract lightning.
If you are outside during a storm, avoid open fields, hilltops, and other high ground. Seek shelter in a low-lying area such as a valley or ditch.
Conclusion

Thunderstorms are a fascinating and often beautiful weather phenomenon, but they can also be dangerous. By following the safety tips outlined in this post, you can stay safe during a storm and enjoy the beauty of nature's power from a safe distance.

kellwest.com

04/10/2025

Severe Weather

Severe weather can have a significant impact on our daily lives, often causing disruption to transportation, infrastructure, and even our personal safety. From thunderstorms to hurricanes, tornadoes to blizzards, severe weather can come in many different forms and can strike at any time. In this blog post, we'll explore the different types of severe weather and how we can prepare for and stay safe during these events.

Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms are one of the most common types of severe weather, and they can happen anywhere in the world. They are caused by warm, moist air rising into the atmosphere and colliding with cooler air. Thunderstorms can produce lightning, strong winds, hail, and heavy rain, all of which can cause damage to homes and buildings. If you are indoors during a thunderstorm, stay away from windows and avoid using electronics. If you are outside, seek shelter in a sturdy building or vehicle.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes are one of the most dangerous types of severe weather. They are characterized by a rotating column of air that forms from a thunderstorm and touches the ground. Tornadoes can cause significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, and they can also cause injury or death. If you are in an area where tornadoes are common, be sure to have a plan in place for when one strikes. Seek shelter in a basement or interior room of a building, and stay away from windows.

Hurricanes

Hurricanes are massive storms that can cause catastrophic damage to entire regions. They are characterized by high winds, heavy rain, and storm surges that can cause flooding. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, be sure to have an emergency kit prepared that includes food, water, and medications. Evacuate if instructed to do so by local authorities, and seek shelter in a sturdy building.

Blizzards

Blizzards are severe winter storms that are characterized by high winds, heavy snow, and cold temperatures. They can cause travel disruptions, power outages, and hypothermia. If you are caught in a blizzard, seek shelter in a sturdy building or vehicle, and avoid overexertion when shoveling snow or walking through deep snowdrifts.

In conclusion, severe weather can be dangerous and unpredictable, but by being prepared and staying informed, we can minimize its impact on our lives. Be sure to stay up-to-date on weather forecasts and warnings, have an emergency kit prepared, and know what to do in the event of severe weather. By taking these steps, we can stay safe and protect ourselves and our communities from the effects of severe weather.

kellwest.com

02/19/2025

Pet Protection in the frigid wintry weather!!

General Guidelines

* Limit outdoor time: No pet should be left outside for extended periods in freezing temperatures. Even thick-coated dogs can suffer from hypothermia or frostbite.

* Monitor closely: Watch for signs of discomfort like shivering, whining, holding up paws, or seeking shelter.

* Provide warm shelter: If your pet must be outside, ensure a draft-free, insulated shelter with a raised floor and warm bedding.

* Never leave pets in a cold car: Temperatures inside a car can drop rapidly in cold weather, posing a serious threat to your pet's health.

Specific Care

* Paw protection:

* Consider booties to shield paws from cold, ice, and salt.

* Trim fur between toes to prevent ice buildup.

* Wipe paws with a warm cloth after being outside.

* Moisturize paw pads to prevent cracking.



* Coat care:

* Avoid shaving your pet's coat too short in winter.

* Brush regularly to remove mats and tangles.

* Consider a sweater or coat for short-haired breeds.



* Nutrition and hydration:

* Provide extra calories to help pets stay warm.

* Ensure constant access to fresh, unfrozen water.

* Health considerations:

* Be aware of potential hazards like antifreeze and ice-melting chemicals.

* Consult your vet if you have concerns about your pet's health in cold weather.

Remember: If you notice any signs of distress in your pet, such as excessive shivering, lethargy, or frostbite, seek veterinary attention immediately.

02/03/2025

01/17/2025

Did you know? Coffee and your health.

12/28/2024

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Kell West Regional Hospital…