Build the Blackout Kit

Preparedness becomes real when you turn lessons into action. This episode walks you through building a family blackout kit—a quick, confidence-building project that fills a critical gap in most homes.

Episode Transcript

(00:28):
This is your AMCON Daily Sit Rep for December the 16th, 2025.
Up first today, the Pacific Northwest is bracing for more rain and severe weather this week.
Atmospheric rivers are expected to impact the West Coast, from Washington to
Northern California, bringing the possibility of moderate to major river flooding,
especially on rivers that faced record flooding last week.

(00:48):
Snow levels will drop, leading to several feet of snow in the Cascades and 3
to 8 inches of rain closer to the coast.
Emergency officials have ordered evacuations in parts of King County after a
dam failure, affecting over 46,000 people.
Authorities advise staying alert to local weather warnings and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
In health news, heavy consumption of energy drinks has been linked to severe strokes.

(01:11):
Physicians in England reported a case of a healthy man in his 50s who suffered
a debilitating stroke attributed to drinking eight energy drinks daily.
Research indicates that energy drinks can dangerously increase blood pressure
and disrupt heart rhythm due to stimulants beyond caffeine. The medical community
is calling for tighter regulation and public awareness on the risks associated with these beverages.

(01:33):
Consumers are advised to be cautious and inform their doctors about their energy drink consumption.
Turning to public safety, there is an increasing trend of violence this holiday season.
Experts emphasize the importance of choosing preparedness over paranoia.
Being prepared means taking practical and calm steps, such as having first aid
supplies, food, and plans in place to manage potential risks,

(01:54):
rather than succumbing to irrational fear.
Community connections and resilient leadership in neighborhoods are key to effective
preparedness and safety.
Everyone is encouraged to develop resilience skills and foster strong,
trusted relationships within their communities.
In other news, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued warning letters.
To major retailers—Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Albertsons—for failing to promptly

(02:16):
remove recalled by-heart whole nutrition infant formula.
The contaminated formula has been linked to a botulism outbreak that has affected
over 50 infants across 19 states.
The retailers have 15 working days to provide evidence of corrective actions
or risk legal consequences, including product seizures.
Parents are urged to check and avoid the recalled product to protect their infants.

(02:37):
Also, there is ongoing protest activity and potential civil unrest around the
country, with various groups planning demonstrations.
Situational awareness is crucial for those attending public events.
Be mindful of your surroundings, know your exits, and report any suspicious
activity to authorities or the RESAT team through regional communication channels.
Enjoy the holiday festivities while maintaining safety and vigilance.

(02:59):
Now for the weather summary.
Expect heavy rain and snow in the northwest this week with another atmospheric
river and Pacific cold front approaching Wednesday.
This will bring gusty winds, mountain snow, and flooding risks.
Above-average temperatures continue across the west and central U.S.,
while arctic air retreats in the east midweek.
Heavy lake-effect snow persists east of Lake Ontario under a lake-effect snow warning.

(03:22):
Please stay alert for local weather updates and advisories, especially if you
are in the Pacific Northwest region.
That wraps up today's SITREP. Members can access the American Contingency Members
Only site to get the full report and more in-depth analysis of today's stories,
along with practical preparedness tips,
training opportunities, and resources to help you, your family,
and your neighborhood stay crisis-ready.