COLUMBUS – UPDATE 3/23/22 7:24 a.m.: Due to the potential for severe weather in Ohio, the statewide tornado drill scheduled for 9:50 a.m. Wednesday has been canceled and rescheduled for Thursday.
The Storm Prediction Center has upgraded the severe weather outlook for a large portion of Ohio to “slight.”
To avoid confusion, officials decided not to test warning sirens Wednesday as originally planned. The test has tentatively been rescheduled for Thursday between 11:00 a.m. and noon, according to a post on the National Weather Service Twitter account.
Severe weather potential today from noon to 6 PM. Damaging winds and large hail are the main threats. A tornado risk also exists. Stay weather aware by staying tuned to local media or NOAA weather radio for the latest information. pic.twitter.com/9Ei0RuYJ2q
— NWS Wilmington OH (@NWSILN) March 23, 2022
A few storms will be possible Wednesday afternoon and WBNS 10-TV meteorologist Jeff Booth says an isolated storm with damaging winds can’t be ruled out.
Although flooding and extreme cold are higher up the list of the top weather-related threats in Ohio, the annual statewide tornado drill is the highlight of Severe Weather Awareness Week.
During the week of March 20–26, residents are reminded to prepare for severe weather before it happens by learning and understanding the different types of weather hazards facing Ohioans.
One way residents can prepare is by learning the difference between storm watches and storm warnings.
A tornado watch is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes a tornado warning is posted when a tornado has been detected by radar or sighted by storm spotters.
ALERT Franklin County sends severe weather alerts and important information.
Residents are encouraged to have a NOAA weather radio, tune to radio or TV for up-to-date weather information, and to develop and practice emergency plans with their families, including pets.
During the annual Statewide Tornado Drill on Wednesday at 9:50 a.m. outdoor warning sirens will be activated one time for three minutes, a longer tone than used during the regular Wednesday noon test.
The test tone is the same “tornado warning” tone which would be used in an actual tornado warning.
Schools, businesses and residents are urged to participate.