MADISON, Wis. – When tornadoes are in the forecast, ReadyWisconsin wants to ensure everyone knows how to stay safe. That’s why everyone is encouraged to take time today to practice their tornado and severe weather sheltering plans during Wisconsin’s statewide tornado drills at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m.
“With no potential severe weather expected in the state today, it’s a great opportunity for schools, families, and businesses to take time to review their tornado safety plans and where they should take shelter if there was an actual tornado,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management Acting Administrator Greg Engle.
During a tornado, the best shelter is a basement, away from exterior walls and windows, or a designated tornado safe room. A ground floor interior room with no windows and no shared exterior walls, such as a bathroom or closet, can also provide protection if a basement is not available.
For the drill, the National Weather Service will conduct NOAA Weather Radio tests, which can be heard at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. if your device is set to sound test alerts or if you are actively listening to a weather radio at the time. Some communities may also choose to test their outdoor warning sirens during the drill times, which is a decision made on the local level.
Information will also be shared across social media or on-air by ReadyWisconsin, Wisconsin’s National Weather Service offices, and may participating television and radio stations across the state. ReadyWisconsin encourages everyone to set a calendar alert or alarm on their phones, to remind them to practice their plan today.
Help spread the word about the importance of tornado safety by sharing how you’re participating using the hashtag #TornadoDrillWI on social media.
For more tips on severe weather preparedness and advice on creating your own emergency plan, visit https://readywisconsin.wi.gov. You can also follow ReadyWisconsin on Facebook (https://facebook.com/ReadyWisconsin), Twitter (https://twitter.com/ReadyWisconsin) and Instagram (https://instagram.com/ReadyWisconsin) for tips on emergency preparedness throughout the year!
