COLUMBUS – Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security (FCEM&HS) will recognize Ohio’s Spring Severe Weather Awareness Week, March 17 – 23, 2019. Residents are reminded to prepare for severe weather before it happens. Hazardous conditions can occur anytime and anywhere without advance notice.



As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, FCEM&HS urges the community to participate in the annual Statewide Tornado Drill on Wednesday, March 20, 2019 at 9:50 a.m. At that time, the Franklin County Outdoor Warning Sirens will be activated one time for three minutes, a longer tone than used during the regular Wednesday noon test. The test tone is the same “tornado warning” tone which would be used in an actual tornado warning. Area schools, businesses and residents are urged to participate and complete an online survey about their participation.



“With the spring season comes the possibility of severe weather such as tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flooding,” said Jeffrey J. Young, Director, Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security. "Preparedness is the key. Ohio’s Spring Severe Weather Awareness Week provides a timely reminder for residents to plan ahead and know what to do before severe weather strikes.”



FCEM&HS encourages residents to be prepared for all types of severe weather by following these important safety procedures:



Know the Risk – Learn and understand the different types of weather hazards facing Franklin County. The top hazards can be found on the agency website at www.fcemhs.org.



Know the Weather Terms – Know the difference between storm watches and storm warnings. For example, a tornado watch is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the area. A tornado warning is issued by the NWS when a tornado has been detected by radar or sighted by storm spotters.



Receive Notifications - Register for ALERT Franklin County at www.alertfranklincounty.org to receive severe weather alerts and important information. Residents are encouraged to have a NOAA Weather Radio and tune into TV or radio newscasts for up-to-date weather information.



Have a Plan/Build a Kit - Develop and practice an emergency plan with your family and include your pets. Know how to communicate and have a designated safe meeting place. Build an emergency supply kit. Be sure to include enough food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours.