April 11-15, 2011 is Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week in Wisconsin. The campaign is to remind people of the dangers associated with tornadoes, thunderstorms, flooding and hail.

Did you know?

1. Wisconsin averages 21 tornadoes annually.
2. There were 46 tornadoes in Wisconsin in 2010. This was the second greatest yearly number on record.
3. Peak tornado season in Wisconsin is April to August, but they can happen any time throughout the year.
4. Tornadoes are most frequent between 4pm and 9pm.

There will be a statewide tornado drill on Thursday, April 14th, 2011 to encourage citizens to be prepared for severe weather.

Watches vs. Warnings

• Tornado/Thunderstorm Watch: be on the lookout for a possible tornado/thunderstorm. A watch indicates there is a risk of hazardous weather. You should have a plan in case a storm threatens.
• Tornado/Thunderstorm Warning: a tornado/thunderstorm has been seen or picked up by radar. A warning means an event is occurring or likely. Take immediate action to save property and lives.

Please visit www.readywisconsin.wi.gov for more important information about tornadoes and how to get ready for storms.

Information from Wisconsin Emergency Management and ReadyWisconsin.