Multiple storm shelters opening in Johnson County

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

VIENNA, Ill. (KBSI) — Several locations in Johnson County will open as storm shelters Sunday as severe weather is expected to move through the area.

Officials say shelters will be available at Buncombe Grade School, Cypress Grade School, Vienna High School, Simpson Baptist Church and Ozark Baptist Church.

At Vienna High School, Doors A, J and Q will be unlocked for public access. School officials recommend using the locker rooms and gymnasiums as shelter areas.

Ozark Baptist Church will also be open, with residents asked to enter through the back fellowship hall door.

At Cypress Grade School, the cafeteria door will be unlocked and the locker rooms on the west end of the gym will serve as designated storm shelters.

Buncombe Grade School will begin opening its shelter space at 2 p.m., with the main entrance to the gymnasium available until the severe weather threat passes. Officials say the internal classroom in the basement is the safest place to take shelter.

At Simpson Baptist Church, the fellowship hall doors will be open. Officials say the fellowship hall and gym area are constructed with concrete, making them suitable shelter locations.

Residents are encouraged to monitor weather conditions and seek shelter if storms approach.