Storms can develop quickly in Wisconsin and you’ll want to prepare to take part in tornado drills during Severe Weather Awareness Week

Storms can develop quickly in Wisconsin and you’ll want to prepare to take part in tornado drills during Severe Weather Awareness Week. Governor Tony Evers issued an official Proclamation to observe April 8-12 as Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week, along with statewide tornado drills on Thursday, April 11 at 1:45 pm and 6:45 pm.

LISTEN: Civic Media’s Teri Barr and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot discuss Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week in Wisconsin

“Wherever you may be during the tornado drills on Thursday, April 11, at school, work, or home with your family, this is the time to talk about your tornado and severe weather safety plans,” Civic Media Meteorologist Brittney Merlot says. “Muscle memory is key in any emergency.”

Why is this so important? Wisconsin already made history in 2024 when two tornadoes touched down in February for the first time.

“Tornadoes and severe weather can develop at any time, which is why we are asking everyone to take a few minutes during Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week to review their emergency plans and identify where the nearest safe place to take shelter is located,” Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle says.

Here’s how it works. Watches and Warnings are relayed to local radio and television stations and are broadcast on NOAA Weather Radios. Public safety officials also receive warnings and can activate local warning systems, like outdoor sirens, to alert communities. You may also receive warning information on mobile devices through Wireless Emergency Alerts.

Remember that a “watch” means a storm, tornado, or flooding – is possible. The ingredients are there. Remain alert for approaching storms and be prepared to move to safety if a warning is issued.
And a “warning” is issued when one of those is about to, or already is, happening. Here are some examples:
Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Move to a place of safety now.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning indicates a thunderstorm with large hail or damaging winds has been reported or indicated by weather radar.

Our state averages close to 25 tornadoes between May and August. And spending just a few minutes this week could save your life.

It pays to be weather ready.

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Weather Ready: Prepare for tornado drills during Wisconsin’s Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week