Spring has sprung! And so have the severe storms.
Listen, Act and Live! Those words could protect you and your family during severe storm season. Listening to warnings and seeking shelter immediately will save lives.
Create a plan ahead of time and be ready to act any time conditions for severe weather may be possible. Have multiple ways to receive severe weather information including alerts on mobile phones, NOAA weather radio, and local TV or radio stations.
“It’s critical for people to have multiple ways to receive notifications and updated information about severe weather warnings, such as through a weather alert radio,” said Illinois Emergency Management Agency Director James K. Joseph. “It’s possible for severe storms to occur after dark, when most people are inside and asleep. A weather alert radio can wake you up and give you time to seek shelter when dangerous weather or other hazards are approaching your area.”
Joseph said National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather alert radios can be programmed to issue a tone alarm and provide information about a warning that has been issued for your county. Other ways to receive severe weather warnings include Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), weather alert apps, TV and radio broadcasts, the Internet and outdoor warning sirens.
Seek shelter immediately if a tornado warning is issued for your area. The best shelter is in a basement or cellar. If an underground shelter is not available, find an interior room or hallway on the lowest level, such as a closet, small interior hallways and bathrooms without windows.
“Severe weather can strike Naperville any month of the year, but occurs most often in spring and again in the fall,” said Naperville Emergency Management Director Dan Nelson.
Hazards include lightning, hail, strong winds, and flooding. Being prepared can save your life or that of a family member.
For information on creating a plan and disaster supply kit, visit www.illinois.gov/ready.
