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March 16, 2026
Statewide Tornado Drill – Wednesday, March 18
Communities across Michigan will participate in a statewide tornado drill on Wednesday, March 18 at 1:00pm as part of Severe Weather Awareness Week. The drill is designed to help individuals, families, schools, and businesses practice what to do if a tornado warning is issued.
A tornado drill is a great opportunity to review your severe weather safety plan and practice getting to your safe place quickly.
During the drill, consider taking a few minutes to:
• Identify your safest shelter location, such as a basement or a small interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
• Practice moving quickly to your safe place with your family, coworkers, or students.
• Review where emergency supplies are located.
• Make sure you have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, including weather radios, mobile alerts, and trusted media sources.
• Talk with children or coworkers about tornado safety and what to expect during severe weather.
🌩️ Ottawa County Notice
Because the statewide drill is scheduled at an unusual date and time, Ottawa County will NOT activate outdoor warning sirens during this statewide tornado drill.
Ottawa County conducts outdoor warning siren tests on the first Friday of each month at noon from April through October. We have chosen to stay on that consistent schedule to avoid confusion about when sirens are being tested versus when they may indicate an actual emergency.
Remember, outdoor warning sirens are designed to alert people who are outdoors. When a siren sounds, you should move indoors immediately and seek shelter.
Learn more about Ottawa County Emergency Management:
www.miOttawa.org/Sheriff/em
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