Statewide Tornado Siren and Alert Testing Today at 10:07am

DEM Blogger

March 3, 2020

Lexington Emergency Management will test its network of outdoor warning sirens today, Wednesday, March 4, 2020, at approximately 10:07 am as part of the statewide tornado drill.

If you live near a park or golf course, expect to hear the outdoor siren sound a full-volume wail. This will be the sound the sirens will make if there would be a real tornado warning.

This is a regularly scheduled test – THERE IS NO EMERGENCY – THIS IS FOR TESTING PURPOSES ONLY.  Please do not call 9-1-1 about the siren test.

Remember: Lexington’s outdoor siren system is designed to alert people who are outdoors. The siren system is not intended to alert persons inside homes, apartments, or office buildings.

More information about the Lexington Warning Siren System is available at http://bereadylexington.com/siren-faq/

This test may be canceled if adverse weather conditions exist.

Why Participate?

Severe weather can strike at any time in Kentucky, making it important for everyone to be prepared to find the most secure shelter available no matter where we are. The statewide tornado drill is an excellent opportunity for Kentuckians to practice their sheltering plans and ensure readiness in case of a severe weather emergency. The statewide drill provides schools, businesses, and families with an opportunity to test their planning and readiness to be able to quickly seek appropriate shelter in case of a real severe weather emergency. By practicing and increasing readiness across the state, residents can be more confident and prepared in the event of actual severe weather emergencies. Here’s more about tornado preparedness.

How to Participate

At 10:07 a.m. on the day of the drill, NOAA Weather Radios will alert listeners that the tornado drill has begun. Outdoor warning sirens will also sound across Kentucky. At this time, participants should practice taking cover in their designated shelter.

Schools, businesses and families are all encouraged to participate in the statewide tornado drill. Schools are encouraged to use the tornado drill as an educational tool for students by incorporating tornado facts and meteorological information and safety tips into their lesson plans.

There’s more about tornadoes and severe storm preparedness at the Lexington Emergency Management website: www.BeReadyLexington.com.

Preparedness information is also available via the Lexington Emergency Management Facebook page: @LexingtonKYEM and the Division of Emergency Management Twitter account: @Lexkyem.