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 </figure>This is Severe Weather Awareness Week.&nbsp;The National Weather Service said a tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from the base of a thunderstorm down to the ground. Tornadoes are capable of completely destroying well-made structures, uprooting trees, and hurling objects through the air like deadly missiles. Tornadoes can occur at any time of day or night and at any time of the year. Although tornadoes are most common in the Central Plains and the southeastern United States, they have been reported in all 50 states.&nbsp;If you know what to do before, during and after a tornado, you will minimize your risk of injury and increase your chances of survival. You'll also find links to research, past events other topics of interest as well as downloadable safety handouts about thunderstorms, lightning, and tornadoes.The state&nbsp; annual storm spotter and tornado warning drill is set for approximately 10 a.m. Tuesday. Emergency warning sirens will be sounding during the drill.

Beware of spring severe weather