Bartholomew County participates in statewide tornado test this Tuesday

COLUMBUS, Ind. - Bartholomew County Emergency Management (BCEM) is joining communities across the state in recognizing Indiana Severe Weather Preparedness Week, from March 8-14.

The week has been proclaimed by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Indianapolis as a statewide initiative to promote severe weather awareness and readiness across central Indiana.     

The severe weather season in Indiana brings the potential for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, large hail, damaging winds, and flash flooding. Preparedness Week serves as a reminder for residents, businesses, schools, and organizations to review emergency plans, build or refresh disaster supply kits, and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather warnings.     

As part of Preparedness Week, BCEM will take part in a Statewide Tornado Test on Tuesday, March 10, at 10:15 a.m.     

During the test ...    

• Outdoor warning sirens across Bartholomew County will sound (weather permitting)
• NOAA Weather Radios will broadcast the test message
• Local media may participate in the statewide drill.   

This is only a test. It allows families, schools, and workplaces to practice their tornado safety procedures. 

BCEM and NWS encourage residents to treat the test as if it were a real tornado warning by:     

• Moving to a designated safe area (basement or interior room on the lowest level, away from windows)
• Reviewing shelter-in-place procedures at work or school
• Confirming emergency communication plans with family members