Statewide Tornado Siren Tests

The National Weather Service is issuing a test tornado warning for all Illinois counties as part of the state’s Sever Weather Preparedness Week, officials said.

The alarms will be tested at 10 am. The week, Feb. 27 to March 5, is dedicated getting the public prepared.

The Kane County Office of Emergency Management and the National Weather Service urges the public to develop a safety plan for use at home, the workplace, school, and for outdoor activities.

Planning ahead and knowing what to do could save your life. For more information visit the Kane County Office of Emergency Management website. 

The McHenry County Emergency Management Agency also has information on its website along with some interesting facts about tornados:

  • There were 48 tornadoes reported in Illinois during 2010, which resulted in one fatality, 40 injuries and more than $110 million in damage.

 • Nearly 30% of all tornadoes in Illinois occur after dark. Nationally, more than half of all tornado deaths have occurred at night. It is critical that homes and businesses have some way to monitor severe weather conditions – especially at night. A weather radio is an excellent way to do this.

• Since 1950, 74% of Illinois tornadoes have been weak (wind less than 110 mph), 24% strong (wind of 110-167 mph) and 2% violent (wind greater than 167 mph). The last violent tornado was July 13, 2004.