Statewide tornado drill set for Thursday in Wisconsin

Part of Severe Weather Awareness Week

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) — Now that winter is on its way out the door for good, severe weather season is ramping up.

It’s Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week in Wisconsin.

On Thursday, there will be a statewide tornado drill. Sirens and emergency notifications will sound to simulate a tornado.

It’s an opportunity for people to test their planning before severe weather actually hits.

Knowing where to go for updates is the first step. And although smart phones and computers are reliable, emergency management officials suggest a specific device to stay safe.

“A battery operated weather alert radio is usually a great idea. There’s hardly any place in Wisconsin where you’re not going to get good reception on a weather alert radio,” said La Crosse Co. Emergency Management Coordinator Keith Butler.

For more information on severe weather preparedness in Wisconsin, check out readywisconsin.wi.gov.