Minnesota Severe Weather Awareness Week is April 15-19, Siren Test Today April 18th

In all fairness, when severe weather is coming and you hear a siren, even if it is a test, you panic a little. Well, fair warning, the siren will go off today. With all the severe weather you can count on us either live on the radio or updates on the internet to keep you up to date.

Funny that this week should be about severe weather. Make sure you know whether the siren is a test or the real thing. Of course make sure it works.

For more than 25 years, the state of Minnesota and Duluth have conducted the Severe Weather Awareness Week in partnership with the National Weather Service.

This informational campaign is designed to teach and remind Minnesotans about weather hazards and provides resources to minimize the risks associated with severe weather.

The main event of Severe Weather Awareness Week is the annual statewide tornado drills. These drills are scheduled for Thursday, April 18 at 1:45 p.m. and 6:55 p.m. A those times, sirens and NOAA Weather Radios will sound in a simulated tornado warning. The first drill is intended for institutions and businesses, while the evening drill is intended for second shift workers and especially families.

According to the National Weather Service, Minnesota experiences an average of 40 tornadoes per year. In 2012, 37 twisters touched down. A record was set in 2010 with 104 tornadoes across the state. Understanding this threat and knowing what to do when a tornado is approaching can save lives.

Take advantage of Severe Weather Awareness Week to review your own and your family's emergency procedures and prepare for weather-related hazards. For more information go Here