Des Moines, Iowa – Sirens will sound across Iowa at 10 a.m. today as part of a statewide tornado drill, a test designed to prepare residents for severe weather during peak spring season.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, outdoor warning sirens will be activated in many communities, though participation may vary by jurisdiction. The drill is part of Severe Weather Awareness efforts across Iowa, aimed at ensuring residents know how to respond when real tornado warnings are issued.
Television and radio stations may briefly interrupt programming to simulate emergency alerts, and NOAA Weather Radios will also activate during the test. However, officials emphasize that no wireless emergency alerts or push notifications will be sent to cell phones during this drill.
Cities including Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and Sioux City are expected to participate, with schools, businesses, and government offices encouraged to practice sheltering procedures.
Residents are urged to take a few minutes during the drill to review their safety plans at home, work, or school. Identify the lowest level of your building, stay away from windows, and ensure emergency kits are accessible.
This drill comes as severe weather season ramps up across the Midwest, with additional preparedness events and alerts possible in the coming weeks.
