Crime & Safety

The Urbandale Sirens Today Are Only a Test

Urbandale's tornado sirens are being tested this morning as part of the state's Severe Weather Awareness Week.

It's officially spring which means it's the time of year again when severe weather can strike at a moment's notice.

At times like these, would you know what to do?Β 

The National Weather Service, in conjunction with area police and fire departments, are testing your weather mettle this week with a statewide tornado drill on Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Find out what's happening in Urbandalefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The drill will proceed as follows:

10:00 a.m.: Tornado watch (drill) given over NOAA Weather Radio.Β 
Β 
10:15 a.m.: Tornado warning (drill) given over NOAA Weather Radio andΒ outdoor warning siren activation.
Β 
10:30 a.m.: End of drill.

Find out what's happening in Urbandalefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

In the event of an actual severe weather emergency, the drill will be postponed until Thursday, April 5 at 10 a.m.

Can't remember the difference between a watch and a warning? Check out this severe weather advice from the National Weather and Urbandale Fire Chief Jerry Holt.Β 


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