Preparing for Severe Weather
How Illinois Prepares:
To help communities stay safe, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) focus on key preparedness steps, including:
Conducting tornado drills and siren tests
Promoting emergency kit readiness
Encouraging family communication planning
Educating on how to recognize and respond to severe weather alerts
As the seasons change, Illinois residents are urged to prepare early for the potentially dangerous weather that can follow.
How You Should Prepare:
According to the National Weather Service, here is how to prepare:
- Stay Informed
This can be done by monitoring a weather alert radio, local radio & TV broadcasts, NWS web pages, or various applications on computers and smartphones. DON’T just rely on one method—especially storm sirens—which are NOT designed to be heard indoors by everyone. - Have an Emergency Plan
Do this for your home, business, schools, and when you are traveling. Designate places to go to seek safe shelter from a tornado or severe thunderstorm. Pick two places to meet in case you are separated from your family or co-workers. While traveling or when away from home, know the names of the locations you are visiting—especially county and city names. - Prepare Yourself
Learn how to use a fire extinguisher and how to administer CPR. - Prepare Your Home for an Emergency
Learn how to turn off the electricity, gas, and water supplies in your home.
Trim Trees and Remove Loose Branches.
Secure Outdoor Furniture and Items.
Inspect Your Roof and Gutters. Repair Loose or missing shingles clear out gutters to prevent water buildup.
Reinforce Windows and Doors. Install storm shutters or use plywood to cover windows in extreme wind conditions. Ensure doors are tightly sealed and reinforced, especially garage doors, which are highly susceptible to wind damage.
Check Your Fencing. Loose fence panels can easily be torn away by strong winds. Secure them with extra nails or screws and reinforce posts with concrete if necessary.
Install Wind-Resistant Features. Consider impact-resistant windows for long-term protection.
Hurricane Straps. If you live in an area prone to high winds, hurricane straps or clips can help secure your roof to the walls of your home. - Have an Emergency Supply Kit
Some storms produce power outages that will last for several days. Having the following items will help you cope with the disaster:
Bottled water
Non-perishable food
Flashlights & extra batteries
Extra clothing & blankets
An extra set of keys & cash
Medications & a first aid kit
Personal hygiene items
Pet supplies
A weather alert radio or portable AM/FM radio - Review Your Insurance Coverage
Check your insurance policy to ensure you are adequately covered for severe weather damage, including wind, hail, and flooding. Contact us to review your policy details and make any necessary updates.
Conclusion
In Illinois, April through June marks the transition from winter to spring—a time when severe weather threats begin to rise. This includes an increased risk of tornadoes, thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and flooding as temperatures climb. Severe weather can strike at any time, and being prepared is the best way to stay safe. It’s good to review emergency plans, strengthen your home against storms, and ensure you have the supplies needed to weather any emergency. By staying informed and proactive, individuals, businesses, and communities can reduce risks and enhance safety for all.
