Kentucky Prepares for Severe Weather with Statewide Tornado Drill
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – As severe weather season approaches, Kentucky is gearing up with its annual statewide tornado drill scheduled for Wednesday, March 4th, around 10 a.m. This crucial exercise is part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, designed to ensure residents are prepared and know how to react when a tornado warning is issued.
Drill Details and What to Expect
Fortunately, no severe weather is anticipated during the drill, allowing the National Weather Service (NWS) to proceed with the annual test. During the drill, the NWS will transmit a test tornado warning message, activating weather alert radios. This alert will also trigger the Emergency Alert System (EAS), broadcasting across television and radio stations.
In Jefferson County, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg announced that outdoor warning sirens will sound, and Metro Emergency Services will simultaneously send emergency notifications through LENSAlert, the LouReady app, and the IPAWS (Wireless Emergency Alert) system. “Severe weather can impact all aspects of our community, and preparation is one of the most effective tools we have to keep people safe,” Mayor Greenberg emphasized.
Your Role in Tornado Preparedness
The NWS strongly encourages everyone to use the drill as an opportunity to practice their tornado safety plan. Knowing what to do before a tornado warning is issued can significantly increase your safety.
What to Do During a Tornado Warning:
- Seek Shelter Immediately: The safest place to be during a tornado is underground. Head to the lowest level of your home, such as a basement.
- Interior Room: If a basement isn’t available, take shelter in an interior room on the lowest floor, away from exterior walls, doors, and windows.
- Protect Yourself: Cover your head and neck with your arms or a blanket.
Understanding the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning is also critical. A watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop, while a warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.
Stay Informed with WHAS11
Download the free WHAS11 app for live coverage during severe weather and real-time alerts, even during power outages. Available for Apple and Android users. Stream WHAS11 on your phone with the app!
Resources for Further Information
For more comprehensive information on tornado safety and preparedness, visit these resources:
Don’t wait until a tornado warning is issued – prepare now and stay safe!
