Keeping Minnesota Ready

Keeping Minnesota Ready
SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK IS APRIL 13-17, 2015
This is the time to reach out to your community and help them get ready for the severe weather season.
Minnesota media outlets will be highlighting this information, so this is a great time to encourage your local
residents and businesses to review their emergency preparedness plans and teach them how to be prepared and
ready for a safe and enjoyable summer season.
STATEWIDE TORNADO DRILLS ARE SCHEDULED FOR
THURSDAY, APRIL 16 AT 1:45 P.M. AND 6:55 P.M .
Be aware! Sirens and NOAA weather radios are expected to sound for the two tornado drills across the state, so
use this excellent opportunity to conduct community outreach and safety education.
During Severe Weather Awareness Week each day’s theme highlights one of the top weather threats in
Minnesota and how to be informed and prepared for them.
Each day of the week focuses on a different topic.
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Monday —
Tuesday —
Wednesday —
Thursday —
Friday —
Alerts and Warnings
Severe Weather, Lightning and Hail
Floods
Tornadoes (with statewide tornado drills)
Extreme Heat
PREPARE YOUR COMMUNITY
 Include preparedness activities at community events. Consider local events already scheduled
in your community, such as state or county fairs, festivals, parades, or sporting events.
 Encourage local businesses and civic groups to help. Ask local Scouts, Lions, chambers of
commerce, etc. to set up a booth to distribute emergency preparedness information, recruit
volunteers, and discuss preparedness plans within your community.
 Host a Local Preparedness Fair. Reach out to prominent organizations in your community, such
as faith-based and community organizations, businesses, and schools to help coordinate a
preparedness fair.
 Help local organizations and businesses conduct exercises or drills. Schedule an emergency
exercise or drill. Once completed, help evaluate and decide if new procedures or training are
needed.
HELP PROMOTE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Specific information about these topics, including factsheets, checklists, data and other resources, is provided on
the HSEM Weather Safety or at the National Weather Service, Chanhassen websites.
Contact us for comments, questions or support at ready.minnesota@state.mn.us