Tornado Safety Guidelines

Thunderstorms and Heavy Rainfall from the Plains to the Mid-Atlantic

Severe thunderstorms producing damaging winds are most likely over parts of the Dakotas into Minnesota from this afternoon into the overnight, with other isolated storms producing hail or wind over the northern High Plains. In the Northern Plains into the Upper Great Lakes and Mid-Atlantic, heavy to excessive rain may bring flash and urban flooding through Wednesday. 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