Georgia residents are encouraged to practice tornado safety Wednesday, Nov. 4, around 9:30 a.m., when the National Weather Service broadcasts a special NOAA Weather Radio test.
The exercise marks Georgia’s Fall Severe Weather Preparedness Day, organized by the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency in partnership with the weather service.
All six NWS forecast offices covering Georgia will issue the modified Routine Weekly Test simultaneously. Schools, businesses and individuals are encouraged to use the broadcast as their cue to practice taking shelter.
The announcement does not specify statewide activation of outdoor sirens or cellphone alerts.
Why November matters
Parts of Georgia experience a secondary severe-weather peak in November and early December, including a risk of tornadoes, according to NWS climatology cited by GEMA/HS.
Agency Director Josh Lamb urged families, schools and businesses to review their plans, noting that fall severe weather can be overlooked as attention shifts from hurricane season to winter.
How to practice
Choose a shelter before the drill begins. A basement or storm cellar offers protection; otherwise, use a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible, away from windows.
During the exercise, move to the designated shelter using stairs rather than elevators. Crouch low, face down and cover your head with your hands, according to GEMA’s drill procedures.
Afterward, check whether routes and shelter areas are accessible and clear of clutter. Review whether everyone knew where to go and how to receive an alert.
Stay ready for real warnings
A tornado watch means conditions favor tornado development. A warning means a tornado has been detected by radar or reported by an observer, requiring immediate shelter in the warned area. NWS tornado guidance
GEMA/HS recommends keeping an emergency kit with supplies for at least three days, making a family emergency plan and maintaining multiple ways to receive weather alerts. County emergency management agencies can provide local preparedness information.
