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How to prepare for severe weather in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Through Saturday, it’s officially Severe Weather Preparedness Week in the state of Indiana.

On Tuesday, the entire state participated in a statewide tornado drill to encourage residents to review their safety plans.

The best spot to go in your house is the basement if a tornado warning is in place for your area. If you are without a basement, an interior room away from any windows is the next best option.

Of course, it’s always important to know the difference between a watch and a warning. Watches can be issued several hours in advance, while warnings are given advance notice of minutes.

Since 1986, the National Weather Service in Indianapolis issues on average 29 tornado warnings per year. The average number of severe thunderstorm warnings is a higher total at 169.