LANSING, Mich. — Residents of Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties may hear tornado sirens or receive an emergency alert on their phones Wednesday afternoon, but there is no need for concern. The alert, set for 12:59 p.m. on March 26, is part of a statewide tornado drill to ensure that emergency systems are functioning properly.
As part of Michigan’s Severe Weather Awareness Week, the test will simulate the activation of Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on mobile devices and the sounding of outdoor warning sirens. Ingham County Emergency Management has emphasized that this is only a test and not an actual emergency.
The test message will read:
“TEST TEST TEST: This is a TEST of your phone’s Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system. Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties and the City of Lansing are sending this TEST as part of Michigan’s Severe Weather Awareness Week. You may also hear the outdoor warning (tornado) sirens activate as part of the Statewide Voluntary Tornado Drill. THIS IS ONLY A TEST!”
In addition to the phone alerts and siren sounds, the drill aims to encourage residents to consider their safety plans in the event of a real tornado. Ingham County Emergency Management suggests individuals take a moment during the drill to identify their designated safe shelter locations, ensuring they are prepared if a real storm were to strike.
While this drill is voluntary, it provides an important opportunity for the public to familiarize themselves with emergency protocols and review their own emergency preparedness.
The Statewide Voluntary Tornado Drill is a reminder of Michigan’s commitment to severe weather safety and preparedness, helping residents know what actions to take should an actual emergency arise.
