Polk County Emergency Management emphasizes the importance of the annual statewide tornado drills during Severe Weather Awareness Week. Scheduled for today in Minnesota at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m., the drills serve as crucial preparedness exercises. Outdoor warning sirens will sound in a simulated tornado warning, with the first drill targeting institutions and businesses, and the evening drill for second shift workers and families. These drills help ensure readiness for severe weather events.
In Polk County, outdoor warning sirens are used for tornadoes and intense thunderstorms with expected winds exceeding 70 mph. It’s essential to note that there is never an “all clear” activation for sirens, highlighting the need for continued vigilance during severe weather. On average, Minnesota experiences 29 tornadoes per year, with a record-setting 113 tornadoes touching down in 2010. These drills are vital for public safety and preparedness, reminding residents to have a plan in place for severe weather situations.
For more information and resources on severe weather preparedness, visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.