Tornado Awareness Week  is happening this April in Michigan!

The month of April has a number of important dates in it! First is April 1st, aka April Fools. Quickly on the heels of that we have Friday the 13th and finally Earth Day on April 22nd. But now we have another important date, Severe Weather Awareness week!

Gov. Rick Snyder has declared this week, April 8 through 14 as Michigan's Severe Weather Awareness Week. Broadcasters and Emergency Management partners statewide are encouraging Michiganders to conduct a statewide tornado drill at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 11.

Capt. Chris A. Kelenske, Deputy State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD informed Mlive.com...

"Tornadoes can develop rapidly, with little or no warning. Due to their unpredictable nature, we must be ready well in advance."

All business's, school's and homes are being asked to practice a tornado drill in case the worst case weather situation faces us. Thanks to Mlive.com for reminding us what we need to do to stay safe.

Here are some tips so you can be ready in the event of a tornado.

• Identify the lowest place to take cover during a tornado. If a basement does not exist, find an interior hallway away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
• Go under something sturdy, such as a workbench or stairwell, when taking shelter in the basement or designated spot.
• Conduct regular tornado drills. Make sure each household member knows where to go and what to do in the event of a tornado.
• Stay tuned to commercial radio or television broadcasts for news on changing weather conditions or approaching storms.
• Know the difference: a Tornado Watch means conditions exist for a tornado to develop; a Tornado Warning means that a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.
• Be aware of signs that can indicate an approaching tornado such as dark, often greenish sky, large hail, large, dark low-lying clouds and loud roars similar to a freight train.
• Develop a 72-hour emergency supply kit with essential items such as a three-day supply of water and food, a NOAA Weather Radio, important family documents and items that satisfy unique family needs.

Another thing that can prove important is having a create or leash handy to protect your fur-babies in the case of an emergency!

Fingers crossed we never have to use any of the information; here's hoping for a safe tornado season!

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