Spring showers not only bring May flowers, but they bring floods and tornado watches

Widespread severe thunderstorms ripped through southern and central Illinois on Monday, April 1, and Tuesday, April 2 as a strong early-Spring storm system develped and moved across the central and eastern U.S. It was declared that all hazards are likely to occur during the intense storm Monday and Tuesday. Powerful storm cells developed over Missouri and swiftly moved into Illinois with periods of showers and storms, ping-pong sized hail in some southern areas through Monday night on April 1. Macoupin County found itself in an extensive Tornado Watch Colder conditions with perhaps the threat for slushy snow accumulations across northwestern Illinois Tuesday night and right into Wednesday. Wednesday, April 3, is expected to be very windy with north to northwesterly winds that may gust over 45 mph.

The development of a storm such as this can only mean one thing: Tornado season is upon us. With that in mind, it is crucial that both families prepare for any potential emergencies. This can be done by conducting a tornado drill at home with young children to help alleviate confusion during such situations. Additionally, pack an essential bag with necessary items just in case immediate evacuation from your residence becomes necessary. Furthermore, have other ways to receive weather bulletins just in case the power goes out.

A simple exercise that could potentially save ones family, prepare a tornado drill checklist. Some of the items that could be considered on the checklists are as follows: Siren test; evacuation route; emergency kit; shelter location; communication plan; first-aid kit; battery-powered radio; flashlights; emergency contacts; identification cards; food; blankets; protective gear; children's needs; and pet supplies.