Chicago Isn’t Actually Safe From Tornadoes — Here’s What You Can Do

A tornado watch over the weekend had Illinoisans on high alert, as rough storms hit LaSalle, Grundy, and Kankakee counties. Perhaps Chicagoans were less worried.

It’s an old myth that tornadoes can’t hit the city. The lake and skyscrapers do not, in fact, protect against twisters, Victor Gensini, a professor of meteorology, told WBEZ.

In 2020, a derecho touched down in Rogers Park. The following year, a tornado passed through Naperville and Woodridge, and the not-so-far suburbs saw serious damage. On July 15, 2024, the National Weather Service in Chicago issued 16 tornado warnings — the most on a single day in 20 years. Today, weather tracking is down in the Midwest following President Donald Trump’s cuts to the National Weather Service. Gensini warned recently of public safety risks.

So, as tornado season peaks in Illinois — from April until late June — here’s how you can prepare.

Staying Safe

In Chicago, sirens go off for three consecutive minutes when the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning, indicating a tornado has been spotted.

Your phone will likely alert you about the threat, and you can follow KWO39 on the radio for updates. You can also download the Red Cross Emergency App for real-time weather alerts and the FEMA App for shelter maps.

During a tornado warning, experts advise taking immediate shelter inside:

If you’re in a vehicle:

Have an Emergency Kit

Ahead of time, build an emergency kit. Among other items, the National Weather Service suggests including:

What to Do After a Tornado

Contact the toll-free Disaster Distress Helpline if you or someone you know could benefit from counseling.