The National Weather Service, SEMA and local emergency managers will observe Severe Weather Preparedness Week March 6 – 10, 2023 to prepare and encourage Missourians to learn more about severe weather and how to protect themselves.

Missouri’s annual statewide tornado drill will be held on Tuesday, March 7 at 10 a.m. as part of the week’s preparedness activities.

At 10 a.m. on the day of the tornado drill, NOAA Weather Radios set to receive the Routine Weekly Tests (RWTs) will alert listeners that the tornado drill has begun. Outdoor warning sirens will also sound across participating Missouri communities. At that time, participants should practice taking cover in their designated shelter.

Schools, businesses and families are all encouraged to participate in the drill. Educators are also encouraged to use the tornado drill as an opportunity to incorporate tornado facts, meteorological information and safety tips into their lesson plans.

NWS provides several safety tips and educational information about tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, lightning and the importance of NOAA Weather Radios on its Severe Weather Awareness Week. Each day during the week will focus on a different safety message:

-Monday, March 6 – Receive Weather Information Day
-Tuesday, March 7 – Tornado Safety Day
-Wednesday, March 8 – Lightning Safety Day
-Thursday, March 9 – Hail/Wind Safety Day
-Friday, March 10 – Flood Safety Day