CHICAGO — With severe weather becoming more frequent across Illinois, officials and agencies are urging residents to take proactive steps in tornado preparedness, especially as summer storm activity peaks across the Midwest.
Tornado Threats Rising: Officials Push for Public Readiness
Illinois is no stranger to extreme weather, but the increasing severity and frequency of tornadoes have pushed state agencies and federal partners to renew calls for stronger public awareness and disaster readiness.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Weather Service (NWS), tornadoes have been reported in all 50 U.S. states, with the Central Plains and Midwest being among the most vulnerable. In the event of a tornado, quick and informed action is essential for survival.
What to Do Before a Tornado Strikes
State officials emphasize that advanced planning can reduce injury and death when tornadoes hit. Here’s what Illinois residents should know:
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Monitor forecasts through a NOAA Weather Radio or trusted news outlets.
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Prepare an emergency kit including water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, whistle, and local maps.
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Sign up for local alert systems or apps that notify residents of tornado watches and warnings.
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Designate a safe shelter—ideally a basement or small, windowless interior room on the lowest floor.
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Reinforce your shelter area, especially in mobile homes or older buildings.
As noted in OSHA’s Tornado Preparedness Guidance, employers and families alike should have documented emergency action plans and practice drills to ensure everyone knows where to go and what to do.
Understanding Tornado Alerts: Watch vs Warning vs Emergency
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Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable for tornadoes. Stay alert and review safety plans.
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Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. Take shelter immediately.
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Tornado Emergency: A severe tornado is confirmed and poses a deadly threat to life and property. Immediate action is necessary.
For example, in high-risk zones around Peoria, Springfield, and the Chicago metropolitan area, local governments often activate sirens and phone alerts when warnings are issued.
During a Tornado: Where You Are Matters
At Home: Get to a basement, storm shelter, or small interior room. Avoid windows.
In a Vehicle: Drive to the nearest shelter if time allows. Otherwise, lie in a low-lying ditch away from the vehicle.
Outside: Do not seek shelter in a shed or tent. Move to a permanent structure quickly.
At School or Work: Follow practiced drills, avoid large open rooms like cafeterias or gyms.
What To Do After the Tornado Passes
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Stay Informed about additional threats like flash floods.
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Contact family or friends to let them know you’re safe.
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Avoid downed power lines and unstable structures.
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Help others if trained, and only return home when authorities declare it safe.
City of Chicago & IDHS Joint Preparedness Push
In a coordinated effort with FEMA, OSHA, and the Illinois Department of Public Health, the City of Chicago is also rolling out updated awareness materials and community safety webinars to ensure every neighborhood, from Englewood to Edgewater, understands their local risk and readiness options.
Officials urge residents to also keep printed plans accessible for children, seniors, and those who may not use smartphones or digital alerts.
CTA, Schools, Employers Join Drill Campaigns
Workplaces, public transportation hubs like Union Station, and all CPS schools are being asked to conduct updated tornado response drills throughout the summer. The initiative is part of a broader resilience program introduced by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency.
Final Safety Reminders for Illinois Residents
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Have a designated shelter spot ready in advance.
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Don’t rely solely on sirens—enable mobile and NOAA alerts.
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Never wait until the last minute to act. Every second matters.
What’s your tornado readiness plan? Share it with us in the comments and help spread awareness to your community. For more updates and safety guides, visit ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
