Severe Weather Safety

Severe weather can occur at any time of year and may include thunderstorms, high winds, tornadoes, heavy rain, and power outages. Preparing ahead of time and knowing what to do during severe weather can help reduce the risk of injury and property damage.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take appropriate precautions when severe weather is forecast or occurring.

Staying Informed

Timely and accurate information is critical during severe weather events.

• Sign up for Nixle alerts to receive emergency and weather-related notifications
• Monitor local forecasts from trusted sources
• Follow guidance from local emergency management agencies

Reliable Sources for Time-Sensitive Information

The most reliable sources for time-sensitive information include:

• Mt. Vernon Emergency Management Agency (EMA)
• Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency (EMA)
• Local news and radio stations may also provide updates on severe weather conditions, road closures, and emergency information.

Outdoor Warning Sirens & Emergency Messages

The City’s outdoor warning system may broadcast alerts and announcements during severe weather events and emergency situations. Residents are encouraged to become familiar with these messages and understand the actions that may be needed when they are heard.

Outdoor warning sirens are designed primarily to alert people who are outdoors. Residents should not rely solely on sirens for emergency notifications and are encouraged to use additional sources such as Nixle alerts, weather radios, local media, and trusted weather apps.

How the Outdoor Warning Siren System Operates

The City of Mt. Vernon’s outdoor warning siren system may broadcast both siren tones and voice announcements during severe weather and emergency situations.

Only the two park sirens are used for lightning detection announcements during park hours. When lightning is detected nearby, these sirens broadcast a voice announcement warning individuals in the parks to seek shelter.

The lightning announcement feature was originally activated on all city sirens. Following resident feedback about frequent activations during regular storms, the feature was removed from all other sirens and remains active only at the parks.

The park sirens themselves and their volume levels have not changed. The only addition was the lightning voice announcement feature.

During Tornado Warnings and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings that include winds at or above 70 MPH, all outdoor warning sirens throughout the city will sound and provide a voice announcement identifying the warning.

All severe weather siren activations are automatically triggered through the National Weather Service.

Listen to Test Announcement

This announcement is used during scheduled siren testing to confirm the outdoor warning system is functioning properly. Outdoor warning sirens are typically tested on the first Tuesday of each month, weather permitting.

Thunderstorms and Lightning Safety

Severe thunderstorms can produce strong winds, lightning, heavy rain, and hail.

• Seek shelter indoors when thunderstorms are nearby
• Stay away from windows and exterior doors
• Avoid using corded electronics during storms
• If outdoors, move to a sturdy building or enclosed vehicle

Severe Thunderstorm Warning Message

Listen to Severe Thunderstorm Warning

This message may be broadcast during severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds, dangerous lightning, hail, or other hazardous weather conditions. Residents should seek shelter indoors and continue monitoring trusted weather sources for updates.

Lightning Safety Message

Listen to Lightning Safety Message

This message may be used when dangerous lightning conditions are present. When thunder roars, go indoors and avoid open areas, tall objects, and metal structures.

Tornado and High Wind Safety

Tornadoes and high winds can develop quickly, sometimes with little warning.

• Move to a basement or interior room on the lowest level of your home
• Stay away from windows and exterior walls
• Use blankets, mattresses, or helmets to protect your head and neck
• If in a mobile home, seek shelter in a sturdy building if time allows

Tornado Warning Message

Listen to Tornado Warning

This warning message may be broadcast when a tornado warning has been issued for the area. Residents should take shelter immediately and continue monitoring trusted weather sources for updates.

Heavy Rain and Localized Flooding

Heavy rainfall can sometimes lead to localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas or where drainage systems become overwhelmed.

• Avoid driving through flooded streets or low-water crossings
• Turn around if water is covering the roadway
• Stay away from fast-moving water
• Keep storm drains near your property clear of debris when safe to do so

Power Outage Safety

Severe weather can result in temporary power outages.

• Keep flashlights and batteries readily available
• Avoid using candles when possible
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food
• Never use generators, grills, or outdoor heaters indoors

Residents should report outages directly to their utility provider.

After Severe Weather

Once severe weather has passed, continue to use caution.

• Watch for downed power lines and report them immediately
• Avoid debris and damaged structures
• Check on neighbors who may need assistance
• Follow local guidance regarding clean-up and safety

Additional Resources

Additional severe weather preparedness information, including emergency supply checklists, is available through trusted partners such as:

• National Weather Service
• Ready Illinois
• American Red Cross

The City of Mt. Vernon may share updates when available; however, Nixle alerts and local emergency management agencies remain the primary sources for critical and time-sensitive information.