When Severe Weather Strikes At State Fairs: Protecting Deep Fried Foods And Those Who Eat Them

One of the biggest concerns for large outdoor events like state and county fairs is weather. A sudden thunderstorm or wind gust can have devastating results like the stage collapse at the Indiana State Fair in 2011. Less obvious, but still potentially very dangerous, is excessive heat that could affect both attendees and performers.

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With summer comes a host of outdoor events, most notably state and county fairs. With fried foods, livestock and rides galore, it is no secret that fairs are a favorite pastime of people across the country – particularly in Texas and Minnesota where more than two million attendees stream through the entrance gates annually.

Each of these attendees spends considerably within the fair gates, but also impact the local economy. Conservative estimates say that the Minnesota State Fair brings a $250 million economic impact for the two weeks the fair is open.

While somewhat staggering, in order for those figures to continue attention needs to be given by fair officials to protect those attending the fairs and spending their money. One of the biggest concerns for large outdoor events like state and county fairs is weather. A sudden thunderstorm or wind gust can have devastating results like the stage collapse at the Indiana State Fair in 2011. Less obvious, but still potentially very dangerous, is excessive heat that could affect both attendees and performers.

This is why giving fair officials access to the most updated and accurate forecasting tools along with access to meteorologists, is critical to the event’s success. From making decisions regarding shutting down rides to evacuating stadiums or instructing fairgoers to take cover, this information is critical to minimizing damage and injuries. State and county fairs along with other large outdoor events all generally have inclement or severe weather plans in place as part of the coordinated efforts between event officials, local and state law enforcement and first responders.

For example, the Minnesota State Fair has procedures in place for notifying fairgoers of an imminent weather threat including social media and audible announcements from the five stages with audio-visual systems spread across the fair grounds. Fairgoers are given instructions such as finding and seeking shelter in buildings or structures designated as shelters, such as the Grandstands, horticulture building or coliseum.

Determining safety thresholds is important for event officials to discuss well before the first gate is opened to allow visitors into the fair. For example, if the rides and other attractions area has rides that stand high above the ground, wind thresholds need to be observed and strictly enforced. Likewise, if lightning or other severe weather develops, having visitors seek shelter in a safe location is critical. While thresholds and policies are key, they are useless without access to accurate forecasting. Many private companies provide these services and can offer comprehensive packages that range from severe weather alerts to having a meteorologist onsite during events to closely monitor weather conditions and alert officials at appropriate times. The Event Safety Alliance, a non-profit, membership-driven organization dedicated to promoting “life safety first” throughout all phases of event production, has also published safety standards guidance directed specifically for fairs and festivals.

Providing a safe environment for workers and guests needs to be a top priority for event officials, and   having access to the updated weather information and professional meteorologists is a critical part of the overall solution. This will allow state and county fairs to continue growing their economic impact and benefiting not only the event, but the communities that support them.

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