The National Weather Service has re-issued a Tornado Watch in effect for the following area counties until 5 p.m. today: Kosciusko, Elkhart, Fulton, Huntington, Lagrange, Marshall, Noble, Pulaski, St. Joseph, Starke, Wabash and Whitley. A watch mean conditions are favorable for storms that could produce tornadoes. A Wind Advisory is also in effect today.

To stay up-to-date on tornado alerts, download the free Red Cross Tornado app to your smartphone. The app includes preparedness tips, but most importantly it will create a siren alert if there is a tornado warning in your area. Because many tornadoes occur in the overnight hours, the audible siren alert can save lives.

The app will also give an “All Clear!” alert when it is safe again.

The Tornado app puts everything you need to know and prepare for a tornado in the palm of your hand. With interactive quizzes and simple step-by-step advice it’s never been easier to be ready.

To get the free app, call **REDCROSS (**73327677) from your mobile phone and you will receive a link to download the app to your phone. You can also download it directly from the iTunes or Google Play app stores.