I don't remember a lot about my first tornado. I remember that my family was visiting friends in Atlantic, Iowa over the Fourth of July holiday. We had been outside as darkness fell and a storm system approached. What happened next is a bit of a blur. I don't remember any sirens or storm warnings. I just remember everyone running into the laundry room in the basement of the house. Then, I remember the sound. The sound that so many people who hear a tornado remember. It sounded like a train was running right over us. There was breaking glass. Younger children were crying. Then, it was over.

The house we were in took a near direct hit from the twister. A large portion of the roof of the house was found in a corn field a half mile away. Windows were shattered, and rainwater stood in portions of the home. It was a nightmare. But fortunately, we were all safe. We knew what to do when a tornado approached. This week is National Severe Weather Awareness Week. With spring officially here, severe weather won't be far behind. Do you and your family know what to do? Here are some things to consider this week when it comes to severe weather.

Tornados aren't the only danger. Severe thunderstorms can produce high winds that can often do more damage than a twister. Lightning is also one of the top dangers of severe weather season. Stay indoors and out of harms way!

It's also important to know the difference between a watch and a warning. A severe weather 'watch' indicates the possibility of severe weather in that area. A severe weather 'warning' means that severe weather is in the area or approaching that area now! You should get to safety immediately.

Take this week to get with your family and discuss what needs to happen if you're caught in severe spring weather. Being prepared is the easiest way to stay safe.

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