Severe Weather Guide

Some of the links below are to outside websites and some are the actual files.  All will open in a new browser window.


Severe weather is a reality in our area. This page provides information on how to prepare for, and react to, severe weather.



The most important thing to do when severe weather is in your area is to get inside a building. Go to the basement if there is one. If no basement is available get to an interior room or hallway on the first floor that does not have any windows. Carry a battery powered portable radio tuned to a local station so you can hear the most up to date information. Change the batteries regularly and test the radio to make sure you are ready.

Most of our communities have outdoor warning sirens. These sirens are activated when a tornado has been spotted or the National Weather Service requests activation based on Doppler radar data.

The sirens are only activated to warn residents of tornadoes, they are never activated to signal an "all clear." Warnings are only cancelled by radio and television announcement. Most of the outdoor warning sirens are not designed to be heard inside a building. They are intended to warn those who are outdoors and are away from radios and televisions.

All weather warning sirens are activated for storm warnings and monthly testing. The sirens are tested on the first Tuesday of every month at 10:00 a.m., unless severe weather is present at the time of the test. The National Weather Service tests weather radios at 11:00 a.m. on the first Wednesday of every month.
 
If you have any questions about severe weather policies in your area, contact your local ESDA office, or your local National Weather Service office, or you can call your local city or village offices for more information.
 

Weather radio frequencies for information in this area are:
WXH-71 Peoria 162.475 MHz
WXJ-73 Moline
162.550 MHz
KZZ-66 Galesburg 162.400 MHz