Western Pennsylvania glories in its changing seasons and weather patterns. There is usually a 30% change of showers, and it can be storming in Evans City and sunny in Butler.

That's why it is important for residents to be prepared for extreme weather situations.

A little caution can go a long way to ease a power outage. A plan — known to all family members, young and old — can be a life saver in a dangerous situation.

According to a map prepared by Penn State University, Butler County had 17 tornadoes from 1881 to present.

May, June and July are normally the top months for tornadoes to occur in the county, experts say.

October is usually one of the lowest. But last year’s weather broke that pattern with 15 tornadoes in the region, according to the National Weather Service. In all the Octobers combined from 1950 to 2020, there were only 11 confirmed tornadoes in the region, the service told the Butler Eagle while it reported on damage in Lyndora and Harmony on Oct. 18.

In June 2019, seven homes and one business were damaged by a tornado in Parker Township. No one was hurt.

But six people died in Butler County on May 31, 1985. The tornado cut a 27-mile swath of destruction through Forward, Jackson, Penn, Middlesex, Jefferson, Clinton and Buffalo townships.

Being prepared for any weather emergency is essential.

First, be informed. Follow the National Weather Service forecasts. Know where your family will go to be safe. If a tornado warning is issued implement your family plan. The NWS recommends going to the basement or shelter in an interior room away from windows — find a closet or bathroom.

“Put as many walls between you and the outside as possible. Get under something sturdy, like a heavy table and cover yourself with blankets or a mattress for added protection,” the NWS website recommends.

It also recommends putting on a helmet, reporting that head injuries are the leading cause of death in a tornado.

If you live in a mobile home, have a plan on where you are going to go to be safe.

It is also good to be prepared for storm aftermaths — such as power outages.

Put together an emergency preparedness kit. A list of 15 items recommended by the American Red Cross includes keeping a three-day supply of water and non-perishable food on hand, flashlights and the batteries they need, a supply of medication needed and a first aid kit.

How will you charge your cellphone? What else will your family need if you have no power for several days?

Don't wait for an emergency to occur. Plan ahead and make sure everyone in your family knows the drill.

— DJS