The Oakland County Tornado Warning Siren System will be activated at a special time on Wednesday, March 24 at 1 p.m. in recognition of Severe Weather Awareness Week (SWAW). This special test time is intended to raise awareness regarding the upcoming tornado/severe weather season and as an opportunity for businesses and schools to practice their tornado safety plans.

The upgraded warning system offers slightly louder signals, slightly further range (each siren covers approximately one mile in diameter), and a self-monitoring component (tested nine months annually, March through November, normally the first Saturday of each test month at 1 p.m.). Siren tests are not conducted during December, January and February due to winter weather.

The outdoor warning system is intended to provide early warning for tornadoes in conjunction with other forms of notification, such as radio and TV. When tornado sirens are heard (other than during scheduled tests), residents should seek immediate shelter in basements. If no basement is available, stay near internal walls or hallways on the lowest floor. If outdoors, do not stay in cars, modular or mobile homes. Persons outdoors should lie face down in low-lying areas (i.e. culverts, ditches, etc.) and cover their head.

Residents are encouraged to prepare a disaster survival kit well in advance of an actual emergency. A good disaster survival kit should contain a flashlight, battery operated or self-generated radio, extra batteries, first aid kit, canned goods, bottled water, medications, extra clothes, blankets, and any special family or individual needs. Kits should be kept in your designated shelter and should contain enough supplies to last a 72-hour period.

The next regularly scheduled test will take place on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 1 p.m. The April 6, 2019 test will not take place due to the special Severe Weather Awareness Week test. For more information, contact Southfield Emergency Management at (248) 796-5990.