Why Every Midwest Home Needs a Storm Shelter

Living in the Midwest comes with many advantages—friendly communities, wide-open spaces, and beautiful seasons. But it also means facing one of nature’s most powerful forces: tornadoes. States like Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Kentucky see severe storms every year, and when tornado season hits, safety becomes the top priority.

One of the best ways to protect your family during severe weather is with a storm shelter. Here’s why every Midwest home should consider having one.

Image Credit Daniel P. Huffman from Scientific American article "Watch Out: Tornado Alley Is Migrating Eastward" May 2023

1. Tornadoes Are More Common Than You Think

The Midwest is part of “Tornado Alley”, an area where warm, moist air from the Gulf collides with cooler air from Canada. This clash creates the perfect conditions for severe storms.

• Illinois averages 54 tornadoes each year.

• Indiana averages 22 tornadoes annually.

• Missouri and Kentucky see dozens more.

Even smaller, rural towns are not immune, tornadoes can touch down anywhere, at any time.

2. Seconds Can Make the Difference

When a tornado warning is issued, families often have only 10-15 minutes to take cover. Finding safety inside a basement or an interior room may not be enough, especially in homes without strong foundations.

A storm shelter gives you immediate protection that meets FEMA and ICC standards. These shelters are designed to withstand the strongest tornadoes, giving your family peace of mind when time is short.

3. Above-Ground Shelters Are Built for Today’s Families

Some people still picture storm shelters as underground bunkers. But modern above-ground shelters are just as strong—and often more practical.

• Easier access: No stairs, making them ideal for seniors, kids, and anyone with mobility challenges.

• Flood resistant: Unlike underground options, above-ground shelters don’t risk filling with water during heavy rains.

• Proven strength: Built with reinforced steel, they can withstand winds over 250 mph, the same speeds found in EF-5 tornadoes.

4. Safety for Families of All Sizes

Whether you live alone, with young kids, or care for aging parents, a storm shelter can be designed to fit your needs. From small units to larger family-sized shelters, there are solutions for every household.

5. A Long-Term Investment in Peace of Mind

While no one likes to think about worst-case scenarios, investing in a storm shelter is about protecting what matters most, your family’s lives. It’s not just a purchase; it’s a layer of security you can count on for decades.

Protect Your Family with a Storm Shelter in Illinois

At Faw Storm Shelters in Casey, IL, we provide above-ground and below-ground shelters built to meet FEMA standards. We serve families throughout Illinois and surrounding states, helping them prepare for the storms that are all too common in the Midwest.

Ready to protect your loved ones? Contact us today to learn more about storm shelter options for your home.