(IRN) Considering a new normal for Illinois may include a high risk for tornadoes.

With 97 tornadoes this year, causing one death and many injuries, Illinois may find 2023 is one for the record books.
AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter is advising residents to take weather alerts seriously.

Porter notes the historical average in the state is 54 annually.

Regardless of one’s hometown, Porter said the United States has a great weather warning system.

The key is for people to tune into these alerts and to make a safety plan.

The safest place for a family to flee a tornado consists of an interior room, preferably in a basement. In the aftermath of many a tornado, Porter said, these interior rooms are the only thing left standing.