OUR PLACE
Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week in Wisconsin will take place April 8-12 this year.
This annual campaign encourages everyone to prepare for the tornadoes and severe storms the state frequently experiences during the spring and summer months. It is also an opportunity for all of Wisconsin to participate in statewide tornado drills at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. on April 11. Communities may choose to test their outdoor warning sirens during the drill time. Storms can develop quickly in Wisconsin, and knowing what to do when a severe weather warning is issued can help keep you and others safe. Wisconsin made history this year when two tornadoes touched down in early February, which were the first confirmed tornados in the state during that month since record-keeping began.
Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes annually. The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed that 21 tornadoes touched down in Wisconsin during 2023. Another hazard of the warm season is powerful, straight-line thunderstorm winds that can peak at 75 to 150 mph. Every year Wisconsin will get a few storms that generate hurricane-force winds of at least 75 to 100 mph. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued for these wind events, rather than Tornado Warnings. Other warm-season hazards include large hailstones that can result in damage in the millions of dollars, localized flash floods or widespread river and lowland flooding, lightning, and excessive heat.
Excessive heat is the biggest weather killer in Wisconsin over the long haul.
Schools, businesses, and people at home are encouraged to practice going to their nearest tornado shelter during the drills as if there were an actual tornado warning in effect. If there is a threat of severe weather in Wisconsin on April 11th, the statewide drills will be postponed until Friday, April 12th.
Lake Geneva Restaurant Week is almost here.
The weeklong delicious journey starts Saturday, April 20th, and goes on until Sunday, April 28th. This culinary adventure features dozens of the area’s finest restaurants. Exclusive menus have been created by the participating restaurants, depending on the eatery including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The over thirty participating restaurants are just in Lake Geneva they are also from surrounding communities. This is a great reason to try something new or enjoy an old favorite. Of course, this week isn’t just about food it’s also about giving back and great causes. Restaurant Week’s traditional charity check will happen. During your visits to the many wonderful restaurants, you will receive a charity check ballot and the charity organization with the most votes will win the grand prize, a $5,000 check. There will be five runners-up and will each receive a $1,000 check. This is a great week full of wonderful people, new opportunities, delicious food, and deserving charities. For more details and information, you can go to visitlakegeneva.com.
Person of the Week
Sean Payne ‘the unofficial mayor of Lake Geneva.’
