News Summary
Kentucky is set to conduct its annual statewide tornado drill on March 5 at 10:07 a.m. EST. The event, organized by Lexington Emergency Management and several partners, aims to educate residents on tornado preparedness. During the drill, outdoor warning sirens will sound, and television and radio stations will broadcast alerts. It’s an opportunity for families to review their emergency plans and practice safety measures in case of a real tornado. If weather conditions are severe, the drill will be postponed to ensure everyone’s safety.
Attention Kentucky Residents: Tornado Drill Coming Up!
Hey there, Kentucky! Mark your calendars because on March 5 at 10:07 a.m. EST, the state will hold its annual statewide tornado drill. The purpose of this drill is to help everyone be prepared for tornadoes, those powerful storms that can pop up unexpectedly.
What You Need to Know
This year, the 2025 Annual Kentucky Statewide Tornado Drill aims to get everyone involved, and Lexington Emergency Management is on board. The National Weather Service (NWS) will issue a test tornado warning message during the drill, giving you a taste of what an actual warning might feel like.
Multiple partners are coming together for this important drill: Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM), the Kentucky Weather Preparedness Committee (KWPC), and the Kentucky Broadcasters Association are all involved in spreading the word and ensuring that everything runs smoothly.
How Will It Work?
During the drill, you might hear some sounds you’re not used to! The drill will activate weather alert radios, and in many places, outdoor warning sirens will sound off for just one minute at 10:07 a.m. This is your chance to practice your tornado safety measures. In Fayette County, you can expect those sirens to wail loud and clear!
Television and radio stations will also participate by interrupting their regular programming to broadcast the alert. So, if you’re watching your favorite show or listening to some tunes, be prepared for an announcement about the drill.
What If Bad Weather Strikes?
In the event of severe weather in the forecast on drill day, the drill will be postponed until we have fair weather. Safety first, right? It’s crucial to make sure everyone has a chance to participate.
No Need to Panic!
While the sirens may sound alarming, it’s important to remember that this is just a drill! Residents are advised not to call 9-1-1 regarding the tornado drill. After all, you don’t want to clog up emergency lines during a practice event!
What to Expect on the Day
Most of the state will hear the Emergency Alert System (EAS) messaging, which will come through NOAA Weather Radio, local television, and radio stations, and cable override services. However, keep in mind that in northern Kentucky, the test message will be sent as a Routine Weekly Test on NOAA Weather Radio instead.
You also won’t receive any Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your mobile phones, so don’t expect your devices to be buzzing away during the drill.
Preparation is Key
This tornado drill is part of Severe Weather Awareness Week in Kentucky and is a perfect opportunity for families to practice their emergency plans right at home, in school, or even at work. Are you ready? Check your emergency kits, review your plans, and make sure everyone knows the safest place to go when a tornado warning hits.
Stay Informed!
If you want more information on Lexington Emergency Management’s warning sirens, be sure to visit this website. For any frequently asked questions, the answers can be found here. And for those looking for additional tornado safety tips and preparedness info, head over to www.BeReadyLexington.com and check out their social media pages: @LexingtonKYEM on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
So, Kentucky, let’s get ready and practice tornado safety together on March 5! It’s a great reminder of why we all need to stay prepared, because you never know when severe weather might strike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Important Siren Testing Scheduled in Lexington and Calvert County
Additional Resources
- WNKY: Statewide Tornado Drill in Kentucky
- WHAS11: Tornado Drill Sirens in Kentucky
- WDRB: Sirens Sound Across Kentucky
- Wikipedia: Kentucky Weather
- WTVQ: Reminder for Statewide Tornado Drill
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kentucky
- Google News: Kentucky Tornado Drill
