21 February 2024
TOPEKA, Kan. (KSNT) – People living in Kansas and Missouri may be hearing their local tornado sirens sound off early in March due to a statewide drill.
The National Weather Service (NWS) says this is part of Severe Weather Preparedness Week which runs from March 4-8. The drill is to be treated as if there is an active tornado warning throughout the states of Missouri and Kansas.
This test is meant to check everyone’s preparedness for real, life-threatening severe weather events like tornadoes, flash floods and damaging winds, according to the NWS. Local officials are being encouraged to sound their warning sirens to start the drill, which is currently scheduled for 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 6. During the drill, the NOAA’s All-Hazards Weather Radio will also be turned on to signal the start of the drill.
While participation is not mandatory, the NWS recommends people treat it as if it was the real thing by sheltering in place or talking about sheltering options with family and friends. To learn more about the drill and other events taking place during Severe Weather Preparedness Week, click here.