Due to the threat of strong to severe thunderstorms on Wednesday, the Statewide Tornado Drill originally set for Wednesday has been rescheduled to Friday, March 7, at 9 am.
The South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) and the National Weather Service jointly sponsor this week to remind people that severe storms, tornadoes and flash floods are significant hazards in South Carolina and people need to take proper safety precautions.
SCEMD and the National Weather Service are promoting awareness of the hazards associated with severe weather, including tornadoes and floods, and the procedures that help keep people safe.
A highlight of the week will be the annual statewide tornado drill. The drill is conducted in close coordination with the South Carolina Broadcasters Association. The State Superintendent of Education is encouraging schools statewide to participate. The National Weather Service will use the Routine Weekly Test (RWT) product on NOAA Weather Radio when the drill is conducted. The “RWT” code will activate tone-alert weather radios the same way the routine weekly test does every Wednesday, and those radios will broadcast the exercise message.
The drill will be conducted Friday, March 7, at 9 a.m. Public schools, state and local Emergency Management, the South Carolina Broadcasters Association, and others will participate in this annual event. The purpose of the drill is to test communication systems, safety procedures, mitigation processes, etc.
For further information on Severe Weather and Flood Safety Week, contact your county emergency management director, SCEMD or your nearest National Weather Service office. Additional resources can be found online at scemd.org/prepare and weather.gov/wrn/spring-safety.
Sunday: Types of Severe Weather
Monday: Watches and Warnings
Tuesday: Have Multiple Ways to Stay Connected
Wednesday: What to do during a tornado (and drill) or any extreme wind
Thursday: FLOODING! Stats and Danger
Friday: Turn around don’t drown, flooding home safety tips
Saturday: After the Storm (Storm damage reporting, recovery from storms and flooding, insurance, etc.)
