Columbia News

The Annual Statewide Tornado Drill is set to take place on March 6, 2024, as part of Severe Weather Preparedness Week. The drill aims to enhance public awareness and preparedness for tornadoes and severe weather emergencies.

In preparation for the drill, Chris Kelley, the Director of Boone County Office of Emergency Management, emphasized the importance of practicing safety procedures. Kelley stated, "Participating in the statewide tornado drill is a crucial step in ensuring that individuals and communities are well-prepared to respond effectively to severe weather events."

The drill serves as a valuable opportunity for individuals, schools, businesses, and organizations to practice their emergency response plans and test communication systems. It also allows emergency management agencies to evaluate their procedures and coordination efforts in the event of a real tornado or severe weather emergency.

As part of the drill, residents are encouraged to review their emergency plans, identify safe shelter locations, and practice seeking shelter during a tornado warning. The drill will provide an opportunity for everyone to assess their readiness and make necessary adjustments to improve their response capabilities.

For more information about the Annual Statewide Tornado Drill and Severe Weather Preparedness Week, individuals can contact Chris Kelley, Director of Boone County Office of Emergency Management, at (573) 554-7900 or via email at EM@boonecountymo.org.