The National Weather Service in St. Louis has issued an Elevated Risk for severe weather in our area today. A Moderate Risk (Level 4 of 5) has been issued by the Storm Prediction Center, indicating a high likelihood of dangerous storms. Twin Oaks City Hall will close early today at 2 pm for the safety of our staff.

Timing & Threats:

• Window of Concern: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM today.

• Peak Intensity: Most likely in our area between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

• Primary Hazards: Baseball-sized hail, damaging winds, flash flooding, and the potential for a few strong tornadoes.

Please stay weather-aware today. Review your family emergency plan and ensure you have multiple ways to receive warnings, such as a NOAA weather radio, local news apps, or wireless emergency alerts on your phone.

Know your safe place and be prepared to take shelter immediately if a warning is issued for our area.

Severe Weather Safety Tips for Residents

• Identify Your Safe Room: Identify an interior room on the lowest floor of your home (such as a basement, storm cellar, or interior closet/hallway) away from windows and skylights.

• Charge Your Devices: Ensure your cell phones and portable power banks are fully charged now in case of power outages.

• Secure Outdoor Items: If it is safe to do so, move patio furniture, trash cans, and hanging plants inside or into a garage to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds.

• Protect Your Vehicles: If possible, park vehicles in a garage or under cover to avoid damage from large hail.

• The "Helmet" Rule: If you have small children, keep bicycle or batting helmets near your safe space. Wearing a helmet during a tornado significantly reduces the risk of head injury from debris.

• Pet Safety: Bring pets indoors early and have their leashes or crates ready near your shelter area.