Illinois Urges Residents to Prepare for Severe Weather Season

State emergency agencies warn of potential storms, outages, and damages 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 promoting Severe Weather Preparedness Month in March and providing tips on how to get ready, including assembling emergency kits, securing important documents, and knowing how to shut off home utilities.

Why it matters

Severe weather events in Illinois over the past year have caused millions of dollars in damages, highlighting the need for residents to be proactive in their preparedness. The state agencies want to ensure communities are equipped to handle potential emergencies and protect lives and property.

The details

IEMA-OHS is recommending that Illinois residents take several key preparedness measures, such as keeping important records in a waterproof container, creating an inventory of possessions, ensuring adequate insurance coverage, learning how to shut off home utilities, assembling emergency kits, and having backup power sources like flashlights and phone chargers. The agencies are also directing people to their Ready Illinois website for more detailed 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 Illinois 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.”

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

“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 (wmclradio.com)

What’s next

IEMA-OHS will be hosting a series of public preparedness events and workshops throughout Illinois during the month of March to help residents get ready for the severe weather season.

The takeaway

With the potential for significant storm damage and disruption, it's crucial for Illinois residents to take proactive steps to prepare their homes, families, and communities for the upcoming severe weather season. By following the guidance of state emergency agencies, people can help ensure they are equipped to weather any storms that may come their way.