Wednesday’s storms are part of the beginning of this year’s tornado season. While it’s hard to predict if the devastation that happened in the South could occur in Minnesota, there were 113 official tornadoes in the state last year according to Wayne Madson, Mower County’s Emergency Management Coordinator.

“That’s why we have the tornado watch and warning system in place,” Madson said.

The tornado sirens are in place to warn people of incoming storms and to alert people outdoors to seek shelter. While the sirens can be activated by the National Weather Service, there are 134 storm spotters in Mower County that will call in tornadoes as well. The sirens will sound if there is golf-ball sized hail or winds in excess of 70 mph.

If you are outside during a severe thunderstorm or tornado, immediately seek shelter or find a low-lying area, like a ditch or culvert. If you’re inside, get to the basement or the lowest floor you can, find a small room and get under a piece of furniture in order to protect yourself from falling debris. A stairwell is also a good place to hide, according to the state Department of Public Safety.

Don’t leave shelter if you hear another siren, Madson said. It’s an indication there’s a second storm on the way.

“We don’t have an all-clear,” he said. “That’s when the media will come into play. Keep up with the media, because the media’s going to keep you informed.”