Carbondale prepares for severe weather, opens storm shelters

CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) — The City of Carbondale is preparing for severe weather expected to hit the area today, with several inches of rainfall forecast over the next 72 to 96 hours.

The National Weather Service estimates the severe weather will pass through the area around 6 p.m. The Carbondale Police Department is urging citizens and visitors to be on alert and take necessary precautions.

In preparation for the severe weather, the city is opening several storm shelters, including:

Carbondale City Hall: The basement will be open as a public storm shelter starting at 4 p.m. today.
Carbondale Civic Center: Will be open until the emergency warnings are removed and the storm front passes.
Carbondale Warming Center: Will serve as a storm shelter starting today at 4 p.m. through tomorrow at 1 p.m.

Residents seeking shelter are encouraged to arrive early and bring necessary personal items.

The National Weather Service has provided tips on what to do before, during, and after a tornado:

Before a tornado: Check the forecast regularly, listen to local news or Weather Radio, and have a family plan with an emergency meeting place.
During a tornado: Go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room away from windows. If you are at work, follow your tornado drill and proceed to your tornado shelter location quickly and calmly.
After a tornado: Be cautious when exiting your shelter and avoid driving on streets prone to flooding.

The city is also warning of the risk of flooding and encouraging motorists to avoid driving on streets with standing water.

For more information and updates, residents can sign up for alerts through the city’s Civic Ready Platform.