Ohio is gearing up for its annual statewide tornado drill, scheduled for March 19, 2025, at 9:50 a.m. This drill is part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, which runs from March 16 to March 22, 2025. The initiative aims to prepare residents for potential severe weather hazards, including tornadoes, thunderstorms, and floods. Governor Mike DeWine emphasizes the importance of readiness, stating, "Being prepared ahead of a disaster is one of the most important things you can do to keep yourself and your loved ones safe."
During the drill, counties and communities will have the opportunity to sound their tornado sirens, allowing them to test their outdoor warning systems. Ohioans are encouraged to participate actively by practicing their emergency sheltering plans. This is particularly pertinent following last year’s record-breaking number of tornadoes—74 incidents were reported across the state. Notably, the state experienced a devastating EF3 tornado on March 14, 2024, which tragically resulted in three fatalities and numerous injuries.
The drill not only serves as practice but as a reminder of the volatility of spring weather in Ohio. The Governor's message is clear: preparedness is key. He added, "The statewide tornado drill gives Ohioans a chance to practice safe sheltering before a real severe weather event.” This proactive approach aims to equip residents with the knowledge and experience necessary to respond effectively when severe weather strikes.
Participation is strongly encouraged for everyone—families, schools, and businesses alike. Schools will conduct their regular drills, and households should review their emergency response plans. The Ohio Emergency Management Agency has outlined safety tips, emphasizing what residents should know when faced with severe weather warnings.
When facing severe weather conditions, residents should know the difference between a tornado watch and warning. A Tornado Watch means conditions are conducive to tornado formation, prompting residents to be prepared to move to safety. Conversely, if there is a Tornado Warning, it indicates immediate danger, and residents should seek shelter without delay.
Alongside tornado dangers, Ohio also faces the potential for flooding. This year’s awareness week reminds everyone how quickly conditions can change. Did you know it takes only six inches of water to knock an adult off their feet? One foot of moving water can float many vehicles, highlighting the importance of adhering to safety guidelines during floods. Two feet of water can carry away most vehicles, including larger ones like pickup trucks and SUVs.
It's not just about managing tornado threats but also ensuring readiness for all forms of severe weather. Emergency management officials encourage all Ohioans to build emergency kits and formulate plans to help their families weather any storm. Ensuring multiple communication channels for weather updates is another fundamental aspect of preparedness. These include NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radios and local media outlets providing timely updates.
Governor DeWine's designation of March 16-22 as Severe Weather Awareness Week is intended to instill knowledge and readiness among residents. It's an effective time for Ohioans to discuss and align their safety plans, ensuring each family member knows what to do during severe weather. This proactive mindset is not just beneficial; it's necessary, as the frequency and intensity of severe weather events appear to be on the rise.
This week’s themes, provided by the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness (OCSWA), guide daily discussions and actions. These themes include preparation and planning, severe thunderstorms, tornado safety and the statewide drill, lightning safety, and flooding—all elements residents must understand deeply as they contemplate their safety strategies. The social media campaign encourages citizens to engage and share their preparedness stories to build community resilience.
Ohio's history with severe weather reminds us of the importance of practicing safety measures. With the memories of last year's EF3 tornado still fresh, the significance of the upcoming drill becomes all the clearer. The drill on March 19 provides not just practice but forms the cornerstone of community awareness and emergency readiness.
Participate fully during the upcoming tornado drill! With the tools and information provided this week, every household can become well-prepared when severe weather strikes. The drill is not just another routine exercise; it is about saving lives and enhancing the safety of our communities.
