Annual statewide tornado drill scheduled for Friday
Kentucky's statewide tornado drill will take place at 10:07 a.m. on Friday, March 7th
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) – Don’t be alarmed—it’s just a drill! The Annual Kentucky Statewide Tornado Drill is set to take place on Friday, March 7, at 10:07 a.m. EST. This annual test, organized by the National Weather Service, is part of Severe Weather Awareness Week and serves as an important reminder to prepare for severe weather season.
Several counties, including Fayette County, have opted to test their outdoor tornado warning sirens as part of this drill. However, the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone will not be triggered during this test. The drill will activate the Emergency Alert System (EAS), meaning you may hear alerts on NOAA Weather Radio, local television and radio stations, and cable broadcasts.
Why This Drill Matters
Kentucky has seen its fair share of devastating tornadoes, with outbreaks occurring in all seasons. From the deadly storms of December 2021 to historical outbreaks in the spring, the state knows all too well the importance of having a plan in place. Today’s drill is designed to help families, schools, businesses, and organizations rehearse what they would do in the event of a real tornado warning.
Time to Review Your Severe Weather Plan
A Tornado Warning can happen at any time, and where you are when one is issued plays a key role in how you respond. The four most common places people may find themselves are at home, at work or school, outdoors, or in a vehicle.
- At Home: The safest place is in a basement. If you don’t have one, move to the most interior room on the lowest level, away from exterior walls, windows, and doors. Keep blankets, a spare mattress, and helmets (such as bike or sports helmets) in this space for extra protection.
- At Work or School: Follow designated tornado procedures and move to the assigned shelter area. Stay away from windows and avoid large open spaces like gymnasiums or cafeterias.
- Outdoors: If you see a tornado approaching, find the nearest sturdy building for shelter immediately.
- In a Vehicle: Do not attempt to outrun a tornado. If possible, leave your car and seek a sturdy shelter. If no shelter is available, find a low-lying area such as a ditch or ravine and protect your head.
The ABC 36 Storm Team will always be here to keep you informed when severe weather threatens. Take this drill as a chance to practice your plan and stay prepared for the upcoming storm season!
