Franklin County Tornado Siren System Conducts Annual Test Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security is encouraging residents, schools, and businesses to participate in the annual Statewide Tornado Drill at 9:50 a.m. Wednesday. The county’s outdoor warning siren system will be activated during this time, with a three-minute duration that includes a longer tone than the regular weekly test. Officials emphasized that the test tone will match the “tornado warning” sound used during actual emergencies. The 9:50 a.m. siren activation will replace the county’s usual Wednesday noon test, marking a shift in the schedule. Residents are advised to take the drill seriously, as the exercise aims to ensure preparedness for real-world scenarios. The test provides an opportunity to familiarize oneself with the siren system and reinforce safety protocols. The drill is part of broader efforts to enhance community readiness for severe weather events. Emergency management officials highlighted the importance of public participation in such drills, noting that consistent practice helps ensure effective responses during critical situations. The test also aligns with state initiatives to improve disaster preparedness across Ohio. By simulating a tornado warning, authorities hope to strengthen public awareness and response capabilities. Participants are encouraged to follow recommended safety procedures, such as seeking shelter and staying informed through official channels. This annual event underscores the county’s commitment to maintaining a robust emergency response system. As part of the drill, local agencies will monitor the siren’s performance and assess its effectiveness in reaching all areas of the county.#homeland_security #tornado_drill #ohio #franklin_county #emergency_management
NWS says tornadoes possible in central Ohio today Central Ohio is under a tornado watch as multiple rounds of thunderstorms are expected to sweep through the region on March 11, with potential for damaging winds and tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service in Wilmington. The warning, active until noon, covers all of central Ohio as a line of severe thunderstorms moves eastward from Illinois into Indiana. The National Weather Service reported scattered thunderstorms developing ahead of the storm system, urging residents to prepare for severe weather throughout the day. The highest likelihood of storms occurs before noon, though isolated thunderstorms could still develop after 3 p.m. Damaging winds are highlighted as the primary threat during the storm activity, with the possibility of large hail and "a few tornadoes" mentioned in the hazardous weather outlook. The storm system is expected to dissipate as a cold front arrives late on March 11, bringing colder temperatures to the region. The severe weather prompted Franklin County to cancel its weekly tornado siren test to prevent confusion with the active warning. Additionally, the NWS issued a wind advisory for central Ohio, warning of southwest winds ranging from 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. The advisory is in effect from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 11, affecting central Ohio and nearby areas in Kentucky and Indiana. The NWS emphasized that gusty winds could dislodge unsecured objects, including tree limbs, leading to potential power outages. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items and exercise caution while driving, particularly with high-profile vehicles. The weather service reiterated the importance of staying alert and following safety guidelines as the storm system progresses.#national_weather_service #central_ohio #wilmington #franklin_county
