Tornado drill photo 2020

Courtesy of the National Weather Service Louisville.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The National Weather Service will conduct a statewide tornado drill at 10:07 a.m. Wednesday.

“Last night's tragic tornadoes in Tennessee show how dangerous the weather can be this time of year, and annual drills help identify any technical glitches that could be crucial in real events,” the NWS Louisville said in an email.

Authorities said the test is a good time to practice your tornado safety plan wherever you are when you hear the sirens or the broadcast warning.

To stay safe during a tornado, the NWS recommends:

  • Be Weather-Ready: Check the forecast regularly to see if you're at risk for tornadoes. Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed about tornado watches and warnings. Check the Weather-Ready Nation for tips.
  • Sign Up for Notifications: Know how your community sends warnings. Some communities have outdoor sirens. Others depend on media and smart phones to alert residents of severe storms capable of producing tornadoes.
  • Create a Communications Plan: Have a family plan that includes an emergency meeting place and related information. If you live in a mobile home or home without a basement, identify a nearby safe building you can get too quickly, such as a church or family member.
  • Pick a safe room in your home, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. Check more ideas for your family plan here.
  • Practice Your Plan: Conduct a family severe thunderstorm drill regularly so everyone knows what to do if a tornado is approaching. Make sure all members of your family know to go there when tornado warnings are issued. Don't forget pets if time allows.
  • Prepare Your Home: Consider having your safe room reinforced. You can find plans for reinforcing an interior room to provide better protection on the Federal Emergency Management Agency website.
  • Help Your Neighbor: Encourage your loved ones to prepare for the possibility of tornadoes. Take CPR training so you can help if someone is hurt.

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