April 4-8, 2022
Are you ready for severe weather? Each year, Minnesota’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management collaborates with the National Weather Service to promote Severe Weather Awareness Week. The week is designed to educate everyone about the seasonal threats from severe weather and how to avoid them. It’s also a great time to blush up on your emergency plan and build your emergency preparedness kit!
Statewide Tornado Drills
The two annual statewide tornado drills are among the most important events during Severe Weather Awareness Week. Outdoor warning sirens and NOAA Weather Radios will sound in a simulated tornado warning. The first drill is intended to help institutions and businesses practice their emergency plan, while the second drill in the evening is intended for second shift workers and families. Both drills are scheduled for Thursday, April 16 in Minnesota.
How to Participate
If you are interested in some ideas on how you, your family, business or your community can participate in Severe Weather Awareness Week, check out some ideas on this list.
Leaders, educators and communicators may want to use this presentation Severe Weather Awareness Week PowerPoint Presentation to help deliver the information.
Why Severe Weather Awareness Week?
According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota experiences an average of 28 tornadoes per year. In 2018, 44 twisters touched down. A record was set in 2010 with 113 confirmed tornadoes across the state.
Understanding this threat and knowing what to do when a tornado is approaching can save lives.
Daily Updates
Check this page every day between April 4 and 8 for more national and state tips and information on severe weather!