Anyone who has experienced a tornado knows the destructive power that strikes with unbelievable force, leaving shattered buildings and lives.

This week is Severe Weather Awareness Week.

Each year, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, the State of Minnesota in collaboration with local governments, the National Weather Service and the American Red Cross designate a week to educate Minnesotans about severe weather.

During the week, residents of the state are informed about the dangers posed by severe weather and the actions they can take to protect themselves.

Executive director of the Mower County Red Cross Elaine Hansen said information is distributed about tornado and severe weather awareness and how to prepare for tornadoes.

"Local teams have been trained on how to respond. All response teams have taken classes on how to respond to a severe weather emergency -- where the shelters are, and where to get food and clothing," she said. "Prepare for severe weather emergencies by talking about and devising a tornado plan with other family members."

They should respond first to the severe storm warning, she said. Then, the tornado watch should tell them the potential is there and they should be listening to the radio or television for updates.

When a tornado warning is given, they should stay inside, go to the basement or a bathroom on a lower floor, or a closet.

"They should prepare a disaster kit including first aid supplies, clothing, a radio, batteries and a flashlight," Hansen said.

Information is available through the Red Cross along with coloring books on severe weather for children. They are also available in Spanish, Hansen said.

Information on Severe Weather Awareness Week can be viewed at www.redcross.org

Call Ailene Dawson at 434-2235 or e-mail her at ailene.dawson@austindailyherald.com