COLUMBUS, Ohio — Tornado sirens were across the state Wednesday morning as part of a yearly drill.
The test coincides with Ohio's Severe Weather Awareness Week (March 21-27), which encourages all residents to prepare for spring and summer severe weather and potential home emergencies.
At 9:50 a.m. on Wednesday, March 24, each local community participated in the statewide tornado drill and test its Emergency Alert System. Counties sounded and tested their outdoor warning sirens.
Businesses, schools and households were also encouraged to practice their tornado drills and emergency plans during this time.
Doppler 10: Ahead of the Storm
Severe weather season is once again here in central Ohio. The 10TV weather team wants to keep you "Ahead of the Storm." Doppler 10 Meteorologists Ashlee Baracy, Jeff Booth, Ross Caruso and Mackenzie Bart will have everything you need to know to help keep you safe when severe weather hits.
📱 DOWNLOAD the free 10TV app for personalized weather forecasts and to receive breaking alerts during severe weather: 10tv.com/connect
---
Difference between Storm Watches and Warnings
A Tornado WATCH means conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and near areas designated by the National Weather Service. Be ready to move to a place of safety if the watch is upgraded to a warning or if threatening weather approaches.
A Tornado WARNING means a tornado is imminent or has been sighted. Warnings indicate impending danger to life and property. Seek safe shelter immediately.
Taking Cover
There are several ways to prepare for severe weather events. For starters, children are taught in school to DUCK:
- D - go down to the lowest level, stay away from windows.
- U - go under something such as a basement staircase or a heavy table or desk.
- C - cover your head.
- K - keep in shelter until the storm has passed.
Then there are ways to protect your home that can be done in minutes and at minimal or no cost to you. (Source: Disastersafety.org)
- Close your garage door and all interior doors to give your roof a fighting chance in high winds.
- Make sure to tidy up outdoors and organize your garage. Items on the lawn or patio could become flying debris and damage your home
- Locate and prepare a safe space: an interior room with no windows on the lowest floor of your home, such as a basement or closet
- Set up multiple ways to get weather alerts
