Severe weather awareness

Severe thunderstorms

Severe thunderstorms produce large hail and strong winds that can cause property damage and even threaten life safety for those who are outside during a storm. They can also produce tornadoes and dangerous lightning. Learn more about severe thunderstorm safety.

Tornado safety

Minnesota lies at the north edge of where most tornadoes occur in the United States. Our state has experienced tornadoes in every moth from March through November, although the most dangerous time of year is late spring and early summer between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. Keep in mind that tornadoes can and do occur at any time of the day or night. View information about tornado safety.

Lightning

According to the National Weather Service, lighting strikes the United States about 25 million times each year. It also kills 20 or more people and hundreds more are severely injured. Learn more about lightning safety.

Flood safety

Did you know that each year, more deaths occur in the United States because of flooding than any other hazard related to thunderstorms? View flood safety tips.

Extreme heat

Since 1990, excessive heat events have caused the third highest number of weather fatalities in Minnesota. Tornadoes and flooding are the only weather events that have killed more people in the last 30 years. Learn more about extreme heat events.

Winter weather

Winter weather safety is important for those of us who call Minnesota home. Most of the time we take things in stride, but there are times when winter storms present special dangers to us. Learn more about winter weather.