Tornado sirens across the state of Ohio will be activated Wednesday, March 20 at 9:50 a.m. as part of Ohio Severe Weather Awareness Week. 

A longer than usual, special 3-minute test of the Emergency Notification Sirens will be heard across the state as part of the annual test. This test is in conjunction with the Statewide Tornado Drill, a time schools, businesses, and families are encouraged to practice their emergency weather safety plans. 

Trumbull and Mahoning Counties are also encouraging residents to sign up for their Emergency Weather Alerts so that you may receive a text or phone call notification that tests their digital alert systems, as well. 

Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA) Executive Director, Sima Merick says, “The statewide drill offers time to establish a safe shelter location before severe weather strikes. We know sheltering can save lives and encourage all Ohioans to make or review an existing emergency plan and be prepared."

The Ohio EMA is also encouraging you to take the first steps in preparedness by building emergency disaster kits, establishing disaster plans, and by learning about possible weather hazards in your area. 

Several of the counties impacted by the tornadoes last week will not be participating in Wednesday's drill and were given permission from the Ohio EMA and the National Weather Service to opt out.