In Illinois and Indiana, most tornadoes occur from April through June, during the mid afternoon through early evening hours, but they can occur anytime of day and any month of the year. Last year Illinois had 52 tornadoes, which is a little above the 30-year average of 43 tornadoes. In 2006, Illinois set a state record with 124 tornadoes. Illinois ranks fifth in the nation in tornado frequency per square mile. There were no fatalities but 27 injuries caused by tornadoes in 2009. The strongest tornado was an EF3 which hit central Illinois from Williamsville to near Beason on August 19. This tornado was up to a half mile wide. It caused about 18 million dollars in damage and injured 19 people.

When a tornado threatens, you may only have seconds to save yourself and your family. Have a preparedness plan for your home, school, and workplace. Know where to find the best tornado shelter.

· In a home, go to the basement and get under the stairwell, or under a heavy piece of furniture. If there is no basement, go to an interior closet, hall or bathroom on the lowest floor and stay away from windows. Cover your head with pillows or sofa cushions.
· In schools, hospitals, churches and office buildings, go to small interior rooms or halls on the lowest floor. Stay away from windows. Avoid large open areas with free span roofs such as gymnasiums and cafeterias.
· In steel and concrete high rise buildings, it is not necessary to get to the lowest floor, but go to interior halls, bathrooms or closets. Stay away from windows.
· In shopping centers, avoid large open areas and glass. Seek shelter in bathrooms, small interior spaces and behind counters. Do not attempt to escape in your vehicle.
· Abandon mobile homes and vehicles for a nearby reinforced building. As a last resort lie flat in a ditch. Do not seek shelter under an overpass.