What to Do Before, During, and After a Tornado in Chicago

After several tornadoes came through the region this week amid one of the most active tornado seasons on record, we’re reminding Chicagoans how to stay safe before, during, and after twisters.

Preparing for a Tornado

Build an emergency kit — including a backup generator or batteries.

Download the Red Cross Emergency App for real-time weather and emergency alerts and the FEMA App for shelter maps.

Tornado damage doesn’t discriminate: If you struggle to find insurance coverage, look into Illinois’ Fair Access to Insurance Requirements Plan.

When a Tornado Warning Has Been Issued …

Listen for a siren and follow your local NOAA Weather Radio station.

Go to the basement or an inside room without windows on the lowest floor. Get under a sturdy surface. If you’re in a vehicle, drive to the closest shelter, or abandon your car and find shelter in a low-lying area.

What to Do After

Stay out of damaged buildings and away from broken power and utility lines. Wear protective clothing during clean-up to protect yourself and others from disease and contamination, and document all the damage to your home for insurance purposes.

Ask for help. Contact the toll-free Disaster Distress Helpline if you or someone you know could benefit from counseling.