Be Prepared! It’s Severe Weather Awareness Week.

GREEN BAY, WI- (WGBW) – April 7-11 is Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week in Brown County, and officials are urging everyone to be ready for the dangers of severe storms, large hail, high winds, and possible tornadoes. Residents are encouraged to review their preparedness plans, build an emergency kit, and know where to shelter if a tornado warning is issued.

Brown County Deputy Executive and Public Information Officer Jeff Flynt announced the proclamation during a press conference on Monday. He recognized the need for proactive measures. Flynt says storms can happen anytime during the spring and summer, so staying informed is crucial.

Prepare for Severe Weather

“This week Brown County is officially proclaiming Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week, whereas tornadoes have the potential to pose a great risk to the safety of everyone in Brown County and the State of Wisconsin…” Flynt said.

Daniel Kane, Brown County Emergency Management Director, said being prepared ahead of time reduces chaos and stress when a storm hits. He recommends building an emergency kit with nonperishable food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and a NOAA weather radio.

“And a more prepared and informed public leads to a quicker and more safe response and recovery effort following these types of events,” Kane said. 

With severe thunderstorms capable of producing powerful wind gusts, dangerous lightning, and even flash flooding, Brown County encourages all residents to participate in the statewide tornado drill. The drill will sound Thursday (April 10,2025) at 1:45 pm and 6:45 pm. Families and businesses are urged to practice heading to their shelter locations, as if under an actual tornado warning.

“We talked a little bit about the drill on Thursday. The normal Wednesday tornado siren test will not take place this Wednesday,” Kane said. “And we will replace it with the statewide test on Thursday at 1:45 and 6:45. Weather permitting that’s when we’ll sound those sirens for you to be able to address your plans and practice those.”

Severe Weather means danger

Kane reminds residents that some storms can produce straight-line winds. They are as strong as a tornado. So, knowing the difference between a watch and a warning is essential. 

A “watch” signals that conditions are favorable for severe storms, while a “warning” means it’s time to take shelter immediately. He points out that a tornado or severe thunderstorm warning should prompt residents to seek shelter immediately.

“Know the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch simply means that conditions are present for these types of events to take place,” Kane stated. “A warning means they’re actively happening or about to happen.”

Kane recommends finding a windowless, interior room in your home or workplace. It should be on the lowest floor possible to maximize safety during severe storms.

“This is what we talk about every year, know where your tornado safe room is, should a tornado warning be issued,” he said. “There are good options, there are better options, and there are best options when we talk about tornado severe weather shelters.”

He also stresses the importance of practicing your plan. Even if you don’t think a tornado or severe thunderstorm will impact you directly, roads may become blocked by fallen trees or power lines, or you may be asked to relocate for safety. Having a “go kit” and a family meeting place ensures you can quickly respond if warnings become reality.

For tips and more information on Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week visit ReadyWisconsin’s website or follow Brown County Emergency Management on social media.