Be Ready for Weather Changes Best Practices, Tips From a Promoter
Over the years, our art shows have faced a myriad of weather challenges: Squalls with 100 mph winds, thunderstorms, torrential rains, flooding, tornados, extreme heat reaching 113, and even occasional snow.
Each experience has imparted invaluable lessons, underscoring the complexity of weather predictions. Conditions can change rapidly, making it essential for artists to be prepared for anything.
For minor rain or heat, we typically keep the show open, advising artists to take precautions. However, in cases of thunderstorms or extreme conditions, we may need to close early, delay opening, or even cancel the event.
This is a difficult decision; artists invest time and money in travel, accommodations, and event fees. Our decision-making process involves a thorough assessment of weather forecasts and real-time conditions, always prioritizing the safety of patrons, artists, and their work.
We have established clear protocols, including a cutoff time for closing in extreme weather. Artists are promptly informed via email alerts, social media updates, and announcements at the show. The decision to close must be absolute to ensure everyone's safety.
What To Bring
While we do not require participating artists to have insurance, it is highly recommended. Artists should bring sturdy tents and at least 45 pounds of weight to secure their displays against the wind. This not only protects their work but also prevents tents from becoming projectiles, which can pose safety risks to others.
Although we do not provide direct insurance coverage for damages, we recommend affordable insurance options for artists to consider when registering for events.
In the event of weather-related incidents, we have a reporting system in place for artists to document damages. We offer guidance on how to document losses and provide essential support resources afterward.
Preparation Tips
Artists should always come prepared with items like ponchos, raincoats, umbrellas, sunscreen, water, blankets, battery chargers, and multiple layers of clothing. This ensures they are ready for varying temperatures and conditions.
One common oversight is a reliable way to secure displays. Heavy weights and tarps are crucial to maintaining stability and safety.
We strongly encourage artists to practice dismantling their booths efficiently. This practice enables a swift response to sudden weather changes, minimizing damage and enhancing safety.
More Advice
Artists should regularly check weather forecasts leading up to the event. We utilize up to seven different weather applications during challenging conditions. Apps like Storm Radar, Chime, SKAI, AccuWeather, Windfinder, and Lightning Tracker provide real-time updates and alerts, helping artists stay informed.
We encourage artists to support one another by sharing best practices for setup and gear. This collaborative approach fosters a strong community atmosphere, allowing everyone to learn and adapt.
Preparing for unpredictable weather requires flexibility. We remind artists to maintain a positive attitude, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Our community thrives on resilience, and together, we can face any challenge that comes our way. By prioritizing safety through thorough preparation and community support, we can ensure our outdoor art shows remain enjoyable and secure for everyone involved.