May 10, 2011 – This severe weather season, the WGN-TV wants viewers to be prepared in the event of a weather emergency.  WGN-TV is teaming up with Midland Radio Corporation and Walgreens in holding a weather event, “Tom’s Weather Day,” on Saturday May 21, 2011 from 11am – 2pm at the Walgreens on 235 Palatine Road in Arlington Heights, IL.  WGN’s Chief Meteorologist Tom Skilling will be meeting and greeting guests in an effort to talk about the importance of advance warning to save lives during severe weather events.  For more information, go to wgntv.com/weatherday

Midland NOAA Weather Alert Radios will available for purchase at Walgreens and can be programmed at the event by NOAA specialists.  The NOAA radios transmit immediate notification of severe weather or emergency alert signals broadcasted by the National Weather Service to users, which is helpful when severe weather strikes quickly.  A portion of the proceeds from the radios will be donated to the American Red Cross.

A WeatherBug Weather Station will be onsite at the event, where a representative will be available to interact with guests and explain how the WeatherBug station works.  These stations are transmitting weather data all across the Chicagoland area from local schools as well as other locations.  

The Arlington Heights fire department will bring their severe weather tornado simulator truck to the event and show guests how to take precaution during a severe storm. 

The Cook County Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Management will be offering advice on how to prepare a safe room and other general preparedness.