The tornado sirens are activated with a signal from the NWS that indicates a tornado has been spotted or is strongly indicated on a Doppler radar and/or strong, damaging winds of 70 mph or greater are present. The alert goes off in the specific cities or towns that will be affected, not throughout the entire county.
Tornado sirens are usually sounded when something “life threatening” is happening, according to the National Weather Service. However, the specific guidelines on why the sirens have been activated varies by jurisdiction. Government bodies advise that citizens check with their local community to clarify which operation system is in place.
What does it really mean when the tornado sirens go off?
In short, it means that something life-threatening is happening and you should go indoors and get more information. The specific guidelines (tornado, hail, wind, etc.) for sounding sirens varies by jurisdiction, so check with your local community to find out the specifics if you are interested.
According to the Quad City Metro area outdoor warning system guidelines, sirens go off for tornadoes, thunderstorms accompanied by winds of 70 mph or higher, or hail that is golf ball sized or larger. The sirens are designed to alert people who are outside that something dangerous is approaching.
What do you do when the tornado sirens go off?
O The sirens sound when it is not safe to be outside. When you hear the siren go off, go inside, take shelter, and if possible, turn on a radio or TV for more information.
Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately. It’s important to know how to stay safe if a tornado is in the area. Learn what to do if a tornado strikes while you are at home, in a mobile home or at school. Watch the videos.