Tagged: severe weather

It's been a pretty quiet start to 2013 when it comes to severe weather in Illinois.

So far in 2013 only two tornadoes have been reported in Illinois. That's a far cry from the 22 already on the books at this time last year.  That includes the deadly February tornado in Harrisburg that killed eight people.  But state climatologist Jim Angel says that could easily change as the temperatures begin to warm up.   Angel says there have also only been 25 reports of hail and 62 reports of wind damage so far in Illinois this year. 

As we move into the severe weather season, local emergency management officials urge residents to make sure they're ready for whatever Mother Nature throws our way.

Franklin County Emergency Management Agency director Ryan Buckingham says we need to formulate severe weather preparedness plans at home and at work. Buckingham says emergency management officials suggest keeping weather radios handy along with extra batteries and flashlights.

 

Governor Pat Quinn is declaring a state of emergency because of flooding in many parts of the state.

The governor has activated the State Incident Response Center in Springfield to gather information about flooding and weather conditions and to coordinate relief efforts. Illinois Emergency Management Agency director Jonathon Monken says the entire state will be impacted.

For road closures around the state you can visit the website: gettingaroundillinois.com.