It is safe to say that Illinois has seen quite a bit of severe weather so far this year. Last week’s I-55 dust storm, with its tragic outcomes, was the first time east of the Mississippi River that the National Weather Service has issued a Dust Storm Warning.  Illinois ranks second in the number of severe-weather reports this year, only outranked by Texas.

This increase in events is most clearly seen already in the number of tornadoes. Currently, Illinois leads the nation in confirmed tornadoes, with 86 so far this year. This number is daunting given that Illinois’ peak tornado activity typically falls between April and June.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency encourages Illinoisans to review its Severe Weather Preparedness Guide to ensure you and your family remain safe during this year’s severe weather season.