State shares tips for severe weather

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security is encouraging residents to be ready for emergencies caused by severe weather.

The agency is recognizing March as Severe Weather Preparedness Month by sharing advice on how people can weather any potential natural disaster.

""From flash flooding to tornadoes, Illinoisans should be prepared for severe weather," IEMA-OHS Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau said. "This week alone, Illinois saw 11 tornadoes and hail in parts of the state with unseasonably warm temperatures and the potential for flooding."

Both the Illinois Department of Insurance and Department of Natural Resources recommend flood insurance for any homeowner, renter or business. Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the U.S., with Illinois receiving two Presidential Disaster Declarations worth more than $424 million because of severe weather and flooding.

Other tips the agency shared include keeping important documents in a waterproof container, making an inventory of valuables, insuring valuables, knowing how to shut off utilities, compiling an emergency kit for extended evacuations or power outages, ensuring flashlights have at least three days worth of power, and only running generators outdoors.