Tornado Safety Guidelines

Extreme Heat and Excessive Rainfall This Week

A significant heat wave is underway for the Intermountain West, Northern Plains, and Upper Great Lakes, peaking in intensity through midweek and lingering across parts of the Northern Plains and Midwest until this weekend. In southwest Texas, excessive rainfall may bring a risk for potentially life-threatening flash and arroyo flooding through Thursday. Read More >

Tornado Safety: Before, During & After the Storm

Photo by Will Wight near Washburn, IL 02/28/17 Photo by Marc Wells Washington, IL 11/17/13

…TORNADO SAFETY…

In Illinois, nearly 80% of all tornadoes occur from April 1^st through June 30^th, during the late afternoon and early evening hours. However in the past few years, nearly half of all Illinois tornadoes occurred in the fall or winter (September through February) including an outbreak on February 28th, 2017.

In a typical year, Illinois averages 50 tornadoes. Last year there were 50 tornadoes reported, resulting in 3 fatalities, 17 injuries, and more than $12 Million damage.

When a tornado threatens, you may only have seconds to save yourself, and your family. Have a preparedness plan for your home, school, workplace AND anywhere groups of people gather.

The best shelters are:

In a substantial building
Away from windows and doors
In a basement
No basement? Get to the lowest floor in a small, interior room, such as a closet, hallway or bathroom without windows