The onset of warmer temperatures in March marks the beginning of the spring severe weather season.
Ohio’s Severe Weather Awareness Week, proclaimed by Governor Mike DeWine for the week of March 17 to 23, encourages residents to prepare for weather incidents that typically occur during spring and summer months, but could strike at any time.
The highlight of the week is a statewide tornado drill and test of the emergency alert system at 9:50 a.m., Wednesday, March 20.
During the tornado drill, Ohio counties will simultaneously sound their sirens.
Lucas County’s outdoor warning sirens will be activated for three minutes using a longer tone than in the regular first Friday of the month tests.
Schools, businesses and households are encouraged to practice tornado drills and emergency plans.
Peak tornado season in Ohio is generally April through July with tornadoes typically occurring between 2 and 10 p.m. but they can happen at any time of day.
As tornado season approaches, the Ohio EMA reminds residents to be mindful of the difference between a tornado watch and a warning.
A tornado watch is issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the area. Watches are usually issued for four to eight hours.
During a tornado watch, review tornado safety plans and be prepared to move to a safe place should conditions worsen. Listen to a weather radio, local television stations or radio newscasts for weather updates.
A tornado warning is issued by the NWS when a tornado has been detected by Doppler radar or sighted by storm spotters. Most Ohio communities have outdoor warning sirens that sound during storm warnings.
If a tornado warning is issued, seek safe shelter immediately. Tornado warnings are usually issued for 30 minutes. Continue to listen to the weather radio, television or radio newscasts for the latest weather information.
Tornado Safety Tips
Whether practicing a tornado drill or sheltering during a tornado warning, the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather awareness encourages everyone to “DUCK.”
D–Go DOWN to the lowest level, preferably a basement or cellar. If there is no basement, go to the most centrally located room in the home such as a bathroom or closet.
U–Get UNDER something such as a staircase or heavy table.
C–COVER your head. K–KEEP inside the shelter until the storm has passed.
Residents of mobile homes should seek safe shelter in the nearest sturdy building or tornado safe room if a tornado or severe wind storm threatens.
For individuals who are caught outdoors during severe weather, the emergency management agency advises them to find the nearest ditch or depression, lie down and cover their heads with their hands.
Do not seek shelter under a highway overpass or bridge which expose individuals to stronger winds and flying debris.
For more information on tornado and other severe weather safety and preparedness procedures, visit weath ersafety.ohio.gov.
