Michigan’s Statewide Tornado Drill Canceled Due To Weather — What To Know

(CBS Detroit) — Michigan declared this week as Severe Weather Awareness Week through March 26.

Residents were encouraged to participate in a statewide tornado drill scheduled for 1 p.m. on Wednesday; however, the drill was canceled due to the weather.

Although some cities may have still participated, the National Weather announced the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) All-Hazards Radio Test was postponed and will be conducted either Thursday or the next regularly scheduled test on March 30.

The NOAA All-Hazards Radio Test scheduled for 1 pm today as a part of the Statewide Tornado drill has been cancelled due to hazardous weather potential. #miwx

— NWS Detroit (@NWSDetroit) March 23, 2022

“The cancellation of this test is to prevent Weather Radios from going off unnecessarily today for a test. The Weather Radio is the only National Weather Service system impacted by the cancellation of this test,” NWS said in a statement. “The National Weather Service still encourages residents, schools, businesses and communities to take time today and review their severe weather plans.”

Michigan State Police said the level of participation around the state was up to the local communities.

To be ready for a tornado:

• Know the difference: Tornado Watch means conditions exist for a tornado to develop; Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.
• Know the signs of an approaching tornado: dark, often greenish sky; large hail; a large, dark low-lying cloud; and loud roar, like a freight train.
• Develop an emergency preparedness kit with essential items such as a three-day supply of water and food, a NOAA Weather Radio, important family documents and items that satisfy unique family needs.
• Conduct regular tornado drills. Make sure each household member knows where to go and what to do in the event of a tornado.
• Stay tuned to commercial radio or television broadcasts for news on changing weather conditions or approaching storms.

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