The National Weather Service is reminding residents about the hazards related to thunderstorms during the spring and summer in Iowa during Severe Weather Awareness Week.

Tornado warnings have been fairly common in most of south central Iowa, according to data provided by the Iowa State University mesonet.

Since 2006, Marion County has averaged 2.6 tornado warnings per year and Warren County at 2.53, two of the highest marks in Iowa. The numbers trail only seven other counties in the state, with the highest rate in Linn County at 3.07.

Warning Coordination Meteorologist Chad Hahn with the National Weather Service reminds all residents to take shelter immediately upon learning about tornado warnings, especially with recent storms having significant impact on communities statewide.

The KNIA/KRLS Severe Weather Action Team is on the air with live coverage for any tornado or severe thunderstorm warning for any portion of Marion and Warren Counties, with backup generators ensuring the coverage stays on if the power goes out.