It's that time of the year once again - when we pause to review the key components of severe weather and discuss how to stay safe when strong to severe storms are threatening your area.
Of course, severe weather can occur at any point in the year if the atmospheric setup is right. That being said, there are two periods on the calendar when the threat for severe weather is typically highest across northern Illinois. Our primary severe season occurs in the spring - typically April, May, and June followed by a secondary season in the fall.
Severe thunderstorms can also happen at any point in the day, but the most favored window is between 3PM-10PM. But once we move into the evening and overnight hours, things can get even more dangerous. Nighttime severe weather is harder to spot, people are settling in or already asleep, and threats like strong winds, tornadoes, and flash flooding become a lot more hazardous as visibility and awareness is much lower. It's a big reason why we emphasize staying weather aware and have multiple ways to receive watches and warnings, even when the sun goes down.
That is why it is important to remember the four key steps: plan, practice, monitor, and act. Before any threat for severe weather arrives, make sure you've created a safety plan and practice it - whether that be at home, school, or at work. Make sure your severe weather kit is up to date as well, stocked with things like snacks, water bottles, flashlights, extra batteries, and clothes like closed-toed shoes.
Once the threat for severe weather arises, keep up with the latest updates through the First Warn Weather App, through Eyewitness News broadcasts, and a NOAA weather radio. Staying informed gives you valuable time to reach. And when a warning is issued or strong to severe storms are moving in, don't wait- act immediately and get to your shelter.
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