Minnesota and Wisconsin Conduct Annual Tornado Siren Drills

What: Statewide Tornado Drills.

When: Thursday, April 11th, 2024.

Times: 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. (Central Time).

Where: Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Purpose: To test the emergency warning systems and encourage individuals, families, schools, and businesses to practice their tornado safety plans.

Why this matters: Practicing emergency plans during a drill significantly increases the chances of knowing what to do and taking safe shelter quickly during a real tornado warning, potentially saving lives.

Who This Affects Most: All residents, workers, and students in Minnesota and Wisconsin, particularly those in areas without basements or designated storm shelters. Businesses and schools are also key participants, using the drill to test their internal emergency procedures.

How to Prepare:

Identify Your Shelter: Determine the safest place to take shelter at home, work, and school *before* a warning is issued. This should be a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.

Review Your Plan: Discuss your family's or workplace's emergency plan. Know where to meet and how to communicate if separated.

Assemble an Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, medications, and a weather radio.

Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather alerts, especially during severe weather season. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive warnings (NOAA Weather Radio, mobile apps, local TV/radio).

Q: Are the sirens indicating a real tornado today?

A: No, the sirens sounding at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. on Thursday, April 11th, 2024, are part of a scheduled drill for Severe Weather Awareness Week. There is no actual weather threat associated with these siren activations.

Q: What should I do when I hear the sirens during the drill?

A: Use this as an opportunity to practice your tornado safety plan. Move to your designated safe shelter location and review what you would do in a real emergency.

Be aware of the drill times: 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. today.

Use this drill as a practical opportunity to review and practice your tornado safety procedures at home, work, or school.

Ensure you have a designated safe place and an emergency kit ready for severe weather season.

MPR News: Severe weather sirens will sound twice in Minnesota, Wisconsin for annual tornado drills target="_blank"