Although tornados can develop in any month, tornado season in our area is usually March through June. The National Weather Service issues two types of tornado statements:
Tornado Watch – weather conditions indicate an increased risk for severe weather that may produce a tornado.
Tornado Warning – a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.
Dearborn County only sounds its emergency sirens when there is a tornado sighting or the National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning. Tornados often form during or shortly after a thunderstorm. Before a tornado hits, winds may die down and the air become very still. If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, take shelter immediately.
Know the tornado warning signs:
- Dark, often greenish sky
- Large hail
- A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
- A loud roar, similar to a freight train
What you can do to prepare:
- Prepare an emergency kit and a family communications plan.
- Enable Emergency Alerts, or download a weather alert app on your smartphone.
- Sign up for Dearborn County Rapid Notify.
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information.
- Be alert to changing weather conditions.
For more tornado preparation information, see https://www.ready.gov/tornadoes. For input, questions, or concerns, please contact your Safety, Security & Elections Committee.
3/1/17