Illinois Urges Residents to Prepare for Severe Weather Season

State emergency agencies warn of thunderstorms, tornadoes, and power outages as spring approaches

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security are encouraging all residents to take steps to prepare for the upcoming severe weather season, which can bring thunderstorms, tornadoes, lightning, floods, and power outages. The agencies are providing tips and resources to help people secure important documents, inventory possessions, obtain proper insurance, and assemble emergency kits.

Why it matters

Severe weather events have caused millions of dollars in damages across Illinois in recent years, highlighting the need for residents to be proactive in their preparedness efforts. By taking the recommended steps now, individuals and families can better protect themselves and their property when dangerous storms strike.

The details

IEMA-OHS is urging residents to keep important records in waterproof containers, make inventories of their possessions, ensure they have proper insurance coverage, know how to shut off home utilities, assemble emergency kits, and have backup power sources ready. The agencies are also directing people to their Ready Illinois website, which provides comprehensive disaster preparedness information.

  • March is designated as Severe Weather Preparedness Month in Illinois.

The players

Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS)

The state agencies responsible for coordinating emergency preparedness and response efforts in Illinois.

Theodore (Ted) Berger

The acting director of IEMA-OHS, who is urging residents to take steps to prepare for the upcoming severe weather season.

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What they’re saying

“Millions of dollars in storm damages within the last year shows just how quickly severe weather can impact our communities. We understand that severe weather can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it unprepared. Taking time now to plan and gather essentials can help protect the people and places you care about most.”

— Theodore (Ted) Berger, Acting Director, IEMA-OHS (webqradio.com)

What’s next

IEMA-OHS is encouraging all Illinois residents to visit the Ready Illinois website to access detailed information and resources on how to prepare for severe weather events.

The takeaway

With the potential for dangerous storms on the horizon, this is a critical time for Illinois residents to take proactive steps to safeguard their homes, families, and communities. By heeding the advice of state emergency agencies, people can be better equipped to weather the upcoming severe weather season.