People in the Midwest usually think of severe weather as being a Spring thing. Severe weather can actually occur at any time during the year. It is good to keep informed about weather in the winter because you need to be aware of heavy snow and blizzard warnings, but my biggest concerns are the Spring storms with tornadoes, hail and high winds.
Not only do I worry about tornadoes and hail, but there can be freezing drizzle that makes highways treacherous and can cause ice to build up on power lines. If there are strong winds blowing those ice covered lines, you have the potential of lines falling and shutting off the power in towns and rural homes.
How do you prepare for something like this? Take an inventory of your home. If the electricity goes off, your furnace won't work, you'll have no lights and no electric cooking stove. Be sure you have food on hand that doesn't require cooking, plenty of blankets and lanterns or candles for light. It might be wise to store some water in jugs for drinking or filling the toilet tank. Make sure to secure any outdoor equipment that might blow away or tip over in high winds. A small generator might be a good investment.
Know where you will go if there is a tornado warning. Make plans for your basement, storm shelter or maybe an inner room or hallway. It is a good idea to have a weather alert, cell phone or battery operated radio so you can keep track of what is going on outside. A flash light and extra batteries are a must. If you have children be sure to have snacks, bottled water, a can to use for bathroom emergencies and something to entertain them with. Color books and crayons, board games, a deck of cards or a favorite toy can help take their minds off of the storm. Make sure everyone has their shoes and a jacket. Remember your wallet or purse, glasses, and any prescriptions. Some foods that are easy to take are bottles of water, peanut butter and bread, carrots, cookies, milk, cereal and fruit. If you are in a basement, it would be a good idea to have something sturdy that you can get under or take pillows.
The important thing is to be prepared! Listen to the weather on television or the radio and be aware of warnings. I keep a tote bag that always has a flashlight and extra batteries. I can quickly toss in my car keys, purse, weather alert, prescriptions,etc. Some things can be stored all season in your basement or storm shelter.
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