Statewide Tornado Drill Set for Wednesday, March 19 in Michigan

DETROIT, MI – As Metro Detroit begins to experience its first signs of spring, residents are reminded to prepare for severe weather during Michigan‘s Severe Weather Awareness Week. The National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac plans to conduct a statewide tornado drill on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, using NOAA Weather Radio.

The drill, set to begin at 1:00 PM EDT, will include all counties in Southeastern Michigan, such as Sanilac, St. Clair, Genesee, Lapeer, Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Wayne, Monroe, and Lenawee Counties. This initiative aims to ensure that residents are familiar with tornado safety protocols.

During the drill, NOAA Weather Radio will activate alarm tones using the Routine Weekly Test (RWT) code, prompting individuals to practice their tornado precautions and safety plans. It’s important to note that the drill will not trigger the Emergency Alert System (EAS) that typically accompanies a Tornado Warning.

“Tornadoes can develop quickly, often in as little as 10 to 15 minutes, so being prepared beforehand is crucial,” said Lori Pinson, a meteorologist at Fox 2. “The tornado drill is an opportunity for residents to ensure their safety plans are effective.”

The difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning is vital to understand. A Tornado Watch indicates that conditions are favorable for tornado formation, while a Tornado Warning signals that a tornado has been spotted or detected on radar, requiring immediate action.

Emergency Management Director Therese Cremonte from Livingston County emphasized the importance of preparation, stating, “Having a plan in place before severe weather hits is vital. Everyone should know where to take shelter in their homes.”

For residents in mobile homes, seeking shelter in a sturdy building nearby is recommended, as these structures are particularly vulnerable to tornado damage. A basement offers the safest refuge, but interior rooms without windows can serve as an alternative.

The Michigan State Police oversees the drill alongside local emergency services. While not all communities may participate, alerts will still be issued through various media channels, including TV and radio, to foster widespread awareness.

In case adverse weather occurs on the day of the drill, authorities will issue a cancellation announcement via social media, but some preparatory tests may still be conducted.

According to Michigan.gov, the state experiences approximately 15 tornadoes annually, making awareness and preparedness imperative. Given the recent severe storms across several states, including deadly outcomes, this drill serves as a timely reminder for residents to remain vigilant.

For more information, individuals can access local emergency resources such as RAVE, an alert system for updates on emergencies, and the MIREADY initiative, which offers guidelines for disaster preparedness.