EDINBURGH, Ind. = Edinburgh Fire and Rescue reminds residents that the community’s tornado sirens are only activated for a tornado warning issued by the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS).
Strong straight-line winds will not trigger the sirens. Stay weather aware and seek shelter if needed.
To better understand, you are asked to read the following JOHNSON COUNTY TORNADO SIREN information:
PURPOSE: Johnson County has outdoor warning sirens throughout the county. They are only intended to warn people who are outdoors and not to warn residents who are inside.
SOUNDING OF THE SIRENS: Johnson County Public Safety Communication Center activates the sirens when the National Weather Service issues a Tornado Warning. They can also be activated when a trained weather spotter or public safety personnel sees a funnel cloud or tornado. When activated, they will sound throughout the county even if the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning for a specific area of the county. Johnson County does not sound an all-clear siren.
TESTING OF THE SIRENS: Routine testing of the outdoor warning sirens will be conducted each Friday at 11 a.m. The weekly siren test will not take place if thunderstorms are predicted in the area, are actually occurring, or during freezing conditions. If the sirens are not tested due to either of the above situations, the sirens will be tested next Friday.
RELATED WEATHER INFORMATION: The best way to receive watches, warnings, and emergency messages is through a NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio. Johnson County Emergency Management recommends that every household have a weather radio as a way to receive critical information, even if power and internet are out. The Johnson County Emergency Management Agency also recommends that everyone have an alternative way to receive weather alerts, such as cell phone weather alerts.
DEFINITIONS:
- Weather Statements: The Johnson County Emergency Management Agency receives severe weather notifications from multiple sources. These sources include: National Weather Service, local television, and cell phone weather alert apps.
- Weather Watches are issued by the National Weather Service. A Weather Watch is issued when the risk of hazardous weather conditions has increased significantly, but, the more precise location and or time is still uncertain.
- Weather Warnings are issued by the National Weather Service. A Weather Warning is issued when a hazardous weather event is occurring, is imminent, or has a very high probability of occurring. A Weather Warning is used for conditions posing a threat to life or property.
