There’s no official start to tornado season but today’s drill indicates that conditions are ripe for tornadoes to occur this time of year.

State emergency officials are urging everyone to get their plans in place in the event severe weather strikes. That includes knowing the safest place to wait out high winds, hail and tornadoes at work and at home, and stocking up on flashlights, batteries and the like. Officials recommend those who don’t have access to a basement to take refuge in an interior room in the building, away from windows.

The National Weather Service is asking people to know the difference between a tornado watch versus a tornado warning — a watch means conditions are such that tornadoes are possible … a warning means a funnel cloud’s been spotted and residents should take cover immediately.