If You’re Scared of Storms, New Research Says You’re Not Alone

Are you freaked out by bad weather? It seems only to be natural. After all, we've certainly seen the damage and destruction that severe storms can bring to the Stateline area.

But how far do those feelings go? A new study says that one in 10 Americans may suffer from severe weather phobia. That's categorized as a a fear of extreme weather such as hurricanes, wildfires or tornadoes so strong that they may feel helpless or can't sleep, according to new research.

About 300 people were survey about their weather anxieties. More findings:

Some people reported physical symptoms, such as feeling dizzy or helpless, or having increased heart pounding or sleeplessness. Others reported behavioral symptoms, such as obsessively monitoring the weather or changing their schedules....

The advancement of technology, [Ball State University geographer Jill] Coleman said, likely helps feed those fears, with constant weather monitoring available online and on TV with bright, splashy graphics outlining storms.

Ah ha! It's technology's fault! I do remember many trips to the basement when I was young. My mom was not one to take chances so any time the tornado sirens went off we took cover downstairs.

It's no wonder, I suppose. Mother Nature can be scary: