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This month, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Office of
Homeland Security is emphasizing the need to stand prepared
against tornadoes, flooding and other acts of nature.
Emergency preparedness kits and other resources are available to
help families cope with disaster.
Christine Wielgos, warning coordination meteorologist with the
National Weather Service, said that severe weather is going to
happen but with proper planning, residents can aim to stay safe.
“Pretty much any type of severe weather that exists does happen
in southern Illinois,” Wielgos told The Center Square.
“Unfortunately, we've had our fair share of tornadoes across
southern Illinois, wind damage and large hail, and even flash
flooding events so that's pretty common.”
She added that one of the worst tornadoes in history happened in
southern Illinois.
Because of the unpredictability of such disasters, Wielgos
recommends that residents have different ways to get alerts,
including radio for overnight advisories. Deaths often happen
when people are sleeping and don’t know to take cover, she said,
estimating “85% of all the tornado deaths that we’ve had
probably over the last 25 to 30 years have happened at night.”
Since flooding is also common, she recommends taking the time to
review insurance coverage or start a policy if necessary.
Coverage is available for many through the National Flood
Insurance Program.
As far as other readiness tips, Wielgos recommends an emergency
plan that takes the guesswork out of where to go during a
tornado or other extreme event.
“It’s one of those things where you need to be aware of what’s
going on and understand what your threats are,” she said.
Additionally, Wielgos suggested customizing your emergency kit,
with medications, important documents, a change of clothing, a
flashlight and other essentials you will need for a few days
away.
Severe weather and flooding in Illinois resulted in two
Presidential Disaster Declarations in 2023 relating to more than
$462 million in destruction.
For more tips on surviving a weather disaster, including how to
shelter in place, visit Ready.Illinois.gov.
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