Michigan Gears Up for Statewide Tornado Drill on March 20

As spring approaches, bringing with it the onset of severe weather in Michigan, the state gears up for its annual statewide tornado drill. Scheduled for 1 p.m. on March 20, Michigan gears up for a statewide tornado drill amidst Severe Weather Awareness Week from March 17-23. Spearheaded by the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD), this drill is a call to action to help residents put their severe weather preparedness plans to the test well in advance of actual severe weather occurrences. Key insights into tornado drills underscore the importance of distinguishing between a tornado watch, signaling potential conditions for tornado development, and a tornado warning, indicating actual sightings or radar detections of a tornado. Recognizing signs of an impending tornado is crucial, with notable indicators including a dark, possibly greenish sky, sizable hail, a prominent, dark, low-lying cloud, and a distinct roar reminiscent of a freight train. Conducted as part of the Routine Weekly Test, these drills will encompass every county in Michigan, initiating from the National Weather Service Forecast Offices in Grand Rapids, Gaylord, Marquette, Detroit/Pontiac, and Northern Indiana. Participants are encouraged to rehearse their tornado safety protocols during this drill. Residents are advised...