Severe thunderstorms can also produce very damaging winds. They can cause significant structural damage to buildings, especially weaker structures such as barns and outbuildings. Thunderstorms may be accompanied by large hail and dangerous lightning. Hail rarely causes injuries , but it can cause millions of dollars in damages to crops, vehicles, and buildings. Lightning poses a significant risk to citizens.
Flooding is a significant severe weather hazard in Illinois.
Nationwide, more than 75 percent of the Federal Disaster Declarations have historically resulted from flooding. Most casualties occur when motorists try to drive through flooded roadways and are swept away by strong currents. They are a partnership of Federal, State, local, and private agencies and organizations with a sincere interest in promoting disaster awareness and public education.