\ by Mike Smith


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ISBN : -
Language : English
Format Type : Kindle Edition
Number of Pages : 69
Publication : First published May 15, 2012

In Mike Smith's first book, "Warnings: The True Story of How Science Tamed the Weather," we learned the only thing separating American society from triple-digit fatalities from tornadoes, weather-related plane crashes, and hurricanes is the storm warning system that was carefully crafted over the last 50 years. That acclaimed book, as one reviewer put it, "made meteorologists the most unlikely heroes of recent literature." But, what if the warning system failed to provide a clear, timely notice of a major storm? Tragically, that scenario played out in Joplin, Missouri, on May 22, 2011. As a wedding, a high school graduation, and shopping trips were in progress, an invisible monster storm was developing west of the city. When it arrived, many were caught unaware. One hundred sixty-one perished and one thousand were injured. "When the Sirens Were Silent" is the gripping story of the Joplin tornado. It recounts that horrible day with a goal of insuring this does not happen again. The book gives you the tools you need to keep yourself and your family safe. Included are clever lift-out copies of the latest tornado safety rules for homes, schools, and offices.

\ Reviews

  • Phil White

    I just finished reading for the second time Mike Smith’s gripping narrative the many things that went wrong on May 22, 2011. I first read When the Sirens Were Silent upon its 2012 release and picked it up again last night as a refresher on storm preparedness. As a broadcast journalist and storm spotter at the time of the Joplin tragedy, my biggest fear was having to cover a similar tragedy should the same ingredients fall together in Wichita. I credit the lessons learned in Joplin with the fact nobody was killed or even seriously hurt when a tornado moved into the Wichita metro area after dark just shy of 11 moths after the Joplin tornado. Though I spent many hours reporting on property loss, we did, thankfully, not have to report on loss of life.

  • Jen Lefebvre

    This read like fiction. The writing style was excellent. Definitely recommend for anyone interested in weather, disasters, or just a gripping story.

  • Robert

    A must read for anyone working or interested in meteorology, emergency management, or media.

  • Jen Henderson

    Thought-provoking examination of the warning mechanisms in place during the Joplin tornado of 2011. Smith explores National Weather Service warnings that day, community policies about tornado sirens, and the actions of many actors: storm chasers, local residents, and his own. A very compelling read. It made me wonder about the many problems we face as a nation in assuring people have sufficient, accurate, and understandable severe weather and disaster warnings. Weather buffs, social scientists studying weather, members of the media, and meteorologists of all types will find this book interesting.

  • Diana

    I give this short book a four ONLY because you absolutely must read Mike Smith's Warnings: The True Story of How Science Tamed the Weather to really appreciate the information in this book, which is a continuation of the first book as opposed to a stand-alone title. When the Sirens Were Silent reviews in chilling minute-by-minute detail what the meteorologists, media, and citizens did right and seriously wrong, leading to the Joplin tornado's high death toll. Smith also gives simple, smart advice on how to build a safe plan for families, schools, and businesses. It's a must-read for anyone living in Tornado Alley (along with Warnings).

  • Matt Lanza

    Very well written, short book. Keeps your attention throughout, and filled with some good advice for people who live in Tornado Country. I'm usually critical if an author is critical about something, but uses his own business as an example of how to do things right. However, the context provided in this book from the author's business was extremely relevant to the situation. I believe this book is essential for anyone who lives in a tornado prone locale, and while a bit harsh, it provides a jumping off point to discuss the warning system in this country and how there are gaps that exist that can lead to tragedies like the one experienced in Joplin.

  • Mary Shafer

    Thorough analysis of what happened in Joplin, MO on May 22, 2011, when the city's tornado sirens failed to activate during the worst storm that ever hit the town -- a rare and horrific EF5. I picked this book to read after finishing Smith's other book, "Warnings: The True Story of How Science Tamed the Weather," which was excellent. A few times, the author (perhaps inadvertently) reveals his conservative political leanings in the way he analyzes the events, but it's still illuminating for those interested in all things severe weather, as I am.

  • Chanele

    This is a long essay on the failure of the warning system in Joplin, Missouri. It is more than just sirens, but a breakdown in many areas. It's a quick read (I read it on a plane and still had time to read other stuff), but it's interesting. If you're at all interested in emergency management or severe storm warnings, it is worth checking out.

  • Michelle

    Good book. Since I've never lived in the MidWest, this was eye-opening for me. I was in awe of how the NWS (National Weather Service) could continue to report the wrong information numerous times and giving the residents of Joplin a false sense of security.

  • Robert

    Quick read that covers operational issues in the weather alert system. Well written and important!

  • George

    The only thing wrong with it was it wasn't longer.

  • pianogal

    I thought this was a good read. Short, but to the point. It made me want to read the author's other book. We'll see how that one goes.