Severe Weather Preparedness Month

By Kyle DuBois, Deputy Director of Emergency Management

LaSalle County, Illinois

Introduction

March is recognized across Illinois as Severe Weather Preparedness Month, an opportunity for residents to review safety plans and ensure their families are ready for the severe weather that can impact our region each year. In LaSalle County, spring and early summer often bring powerful storms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail, lightning, and flash flooding.

While severe weather can develop quickly, preparation ahead of time greatly improves safety for individuals, families, and communities. Taking a few simple steps now can make a significant difference when storms threaten our area.

Severe Weather in LaSalle County

Located in north-central Illinois, LaSalle County regularly experiences severe weather during the spring and summer months. Our county’s mix of rural farmland, river valleys, and populated communities means that storms can affect residents in a variety of ways.

The most common severe weather threats in our area include tornadoes, damaging winds exceeding 60 mph, flash flooding from heavy rainfall, and lightning associated with strong thunderstorms. Areas near the Illinois River and local creeks can be especially vulnerable to flooding during prolonged rain events.

Watch vs. Warning: Knowing When to Act

A weather watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop. During a watch, residents should stay alert and monitor weather updates.

A weather warning means severe weather is occurring or expected soon. When a warning is issued, residents should take protective action immediately and move to a safe shelter.

Identify the Safest Place in Your Home

Every household should know the safest location to shelter during severe weather. The safest areas typically include basements or storm shelters, interior rooms on the lowest floor of a home, and spaces away from windows such as bathrooms, closets, or hallways.

Residents living in mobile homes or buildings without basements should identify nearby sturdy structures where they can seek shelter during severe weather.

Build an Emergency Supply Kit

Severe storms can cause power outages and disruptions. Having basic emergency supplies ready can help families remain safe and comfortable.

Recommended items include flashlights and extra batteries, a weather radio, bottled water, non‑perishable food, a first aid kit, portable phone chargers, and blankets.

Stay Informed During Severe Weather

Receiving weather alerts quickly is critical. Residents should have multiple ways to receive warnings, including NOAA Weather Radios, smartphone alerts, local television and radio broadcasts, and trusted weather apps.

Outdoor warning sirens are designed to alert people who are outside and may not always be heard indoors. Additional alert methods are strongly recommended.

Preparedness is a Community Effort

The LaSalle County Emergency Management Agency works closely with local fire departments, law enforcement agencies, public works departments, schools, hospitals, and volunteer organizations to prepare for and respond to severe weather events.

Take Action This Month

Residents are encouraged to review and update family emergency plans, check weather radios and alert settings, refresh emergency supply kits, and discuss severe weather safety with family members. Preparedness actions taken today can help protect lives when severe weather occurs.

A Message to Our Community

I encourage everyone to create a plan and prepare for severe weather BEFORE it arrives.  Preparedness is an ongoing process that must involve everyone.  I wish everyone the best!

— Kyle DuBois Deputy Director of Emergency Management LaSalle County, Illinois