Severe weather in the form of tornadoes…deadly lightning…flash floods…damaging winds…and destructive hail strike Illinois each Spring…Summer and fall…sometimes with incredible violence.
Last year Illinois had 48 tornadoes, which is close to the 30-year average of 42. Illinois ranks fifth in the nation in frequency of tornadoes per square mile. There were no fatalities but there were
11 injuries from tornadoes in 2008. There were 5 flood related deaths and one death as a result of severe thunderstorm wind gusts in Illinois last year.
The National Weather Service will bring you a series of informational messages next week…to better prepare you for the severe weather hazards that may threaten your safety.
We urge you to develop a safety plan for use at your home…
workplace…school…vehicle…and for outdoor activities. Be aware of severe weather safety rules. Planning ahead and knowing what to do might save your life.
More information can be found at weather.Gov/Chicago or www.State.IL.US/iema.
