A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted or detected by weather radar within the county, or weather conditions are highly favorable for tornado activity and poses an immediate danger to life and property in our area. This is different from a Tornado Watch, which means conditions are favorable for tornadoes but none have been confirmed.
How Do the Sirens Work?
When a Tornado Warning is issued:
- Sirens sound for 3 minutes, followed by 7 minutes of silence.
- This pattern repeats until the warning is lifted by the NWS.
What Should You Do If You Hear the Sirens?
- Take shelter immediately: Go to a basement, storm shelter or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows.
- Stay informed: Tune into local news, weather apps or a NOAA Weather Radio for updates.
- Protect yourself: Make sure you have medicines and necessary supplies in your shelter location.
- Stay put: Remain in shelter until the warning is officially lifted.
Important Notes:
- Sirens are meant to alert those outdoors. If you’re indoors, rely on weather alerts via phone, TV or radio.
- If you’re unsure about the warning status, check trusted sources like the NWS (weather.gov) or local emergency management.
- Please do not call police or fire safety lines to ask why the sirens are sounding. These lines need to remain open for emergency responses like downed power lines, collision and fires.