Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Illinois

This week, March 3rd-9th, is Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Illinois.  I know it's hard to even think severe weather when Rockford only recorded a high temperature of 10 degrees Monday afternoon, but it's important to remember that severe weather can occur any time of the year - even in the cooler months.

A severe weather outbreak occurred in the Southeast Sunday afternoon leaving at least 23 people dead in Lee County, AL.  Numerous tornadoes were reported, some rated as high as EF-4, with damage surveys continuing into Monday evening.  This week we will discuss ways that you can become prepared for severe weather as northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin inch closer and closer to severe weather season.  Peak severe weather season in northern Illinois is typically April-June.

It's important to understand the difference between 'Watches' and 'Warnings'.  A Watch means that severe weather is possible and that you can continue to do what you're doing, but remain alert for changing weather.  Make sure you have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, not just through TV or your phone, and know where the safest location is if severe weather were to occur.  This is especially important if you're not at home.

A Warning means severe weather is about to occur, or is already occurring and you need to take action NOW.  There is an imminent threat to life and property.  Seek shelter in your safe place - lowest level of your home, like a basement.  If you don't have a basement, an interior room, away from windows.  It doesn't mean grab your phone to start recording the incoming weather or to look for the storm.

Knowing the difference between a watch and a warning will help you make better decisions when the threat for severe weather occurs.  Tomorrow (Tuesday) we will discuss where the safest locations are to shelter in your home when severe weather occurs.