What To Expect During Wednesday's Tornado Drill In Michigan

MICHIGAN — Sirens will blare across the state Wednesday, but don't worry, it's just a drill.

The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) reminds Michiganders that outdoor warning siren use will be limited during the 2019 Statewide Tornado Drill at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 27.

In Michigan, outdoor warning sirens are independently controlled by local officials in townships, villages, cities and counties, varying by community. Many communities have different plans, procedures and requirements for sounding sirens. This may prevent some communities from activating their sirens during the tornado drill.

“Outdoor warning sirens are designed to alert residents who are outdoors about an approaching threat,” said Capt. Emmitt McGowan, deputy state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “To be better prepared to hear an alert indoors, you should look to your NOAA Weather Radio and local alerts for hazard information.”

During the statewide tornado drill residents will observe or hear alerts on NOAA Weather Radios, TV and radio stations. To learn how local alerts are administrated in your community and if your community is participating, contact your local emergency management agency.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed March 24-30 as Michigan’s Severe Weather Awareness Week. The statewide tornado drill is a part of a seasonal effort to encourage Michigan residents to prepare and practice emergency plans.

For more information about being safe before, during and after a tornado, follow the MSP/EMHSD on Twitter at @MichEMHS or go to www.michigan.gov/miready.