(LANSING) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared March 15 through March 21 as Michigan Severe Weather Awareness Week.
Because of that, the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division is calling on communities and residents to act by participating in a voluntary statewide tornado drill at 1 PM on Wednesday, March 18.
Whitmer says as we enter severe weather season, it's important for every Michigander to prepare. She says the importance of severe weather awareness is clearer than ever following the March 6 tornadoes. Whitmer encourages every Michigander to take time now to make a plan, build an emergency kit, and sign up for local emergency alerts.
Local communities, businesses, organizations, families and individuals are all encouraged to engage in this statewide preparedness activity but are not required to do so.
During the tornado drill, citizens may observe or hear alerts on TV and radio stations, as well as outdoor sirens in your community, if the local emergency management agency is participating. Please contact your local emergency management agency to learn how local alerts are administered and to find out if your community is participating.
While the average lead time it 10 to 15 minutes, tornadoes can strike with little or no warning, meaning everyone needs to be ready to react quickly.
It's also good to know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. Also know the signs of an approaching tornado, and develop an emergency preparedness kit with essential items in the event of tornado.