News Summary
On March 7, 2025, at 10:07 a.m. EST, Lexington, Kentucky, will conduct a statewide tornado drill as part of Severe Weather Awareness Week. This initiative aims to enhance public preparedness by simulating tornado safety actions. The drill will include test tornado messages and activation of outdoor warning sirens, but residents are advised not to call 9-1-1 during the exercise. Schools statewide are also practicing safety protocols, highlighting the critical importance of being prepared for severe weather, including the risk of tornadoes.
Lexington, Kentucky to Hold Statewide Tornado Drill on March 7, 2025
The Kentucky Statewide Tornado Drill is scheduled for 10:07 a.m. EST on Friday, March 7, 2025, as part of the annual Severe Weather Awareness Week. The Lexington Emergency Management will actively participate in this important exercise, intended to enhance public preparedness for tornado incidents.
During the drill, the National Weather Service (NWS) and Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM) will issue a test tornado message, prompting weather alert radios across the state. This initiative aims to educate residents on appropriate tornado safety actions to take at home, school, or work.
At the designated drill time, the Lexington Emergency Management will activate its network of outdoor warning sirens. These sirens will sound with a specific tone for one minute as part of the test. Residents should refrain from calling 9-1-1 during this drill period to prevent overwhelming emergency services.
This year’s drill will also activate the Emergency Alert System (EAS), which includes NOAA Weather Radio, local television and radio stations, as well as cable overrides to ensure that the message reaches as many residents as possible. However, it is important to note that the drill will not set off the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) on mobile devices.
Contingency Plans for Inclement Weather
If adverse weather conditions are predicted for March 7, the Statewide Tornado Drill may be subject to postponement or cancellation, urging individuals to stay updated on any changes.
Preparedness Resources and Community Engagement
Preparedness information related to tornado safety can be accessed on the Lexington Emergency Management’s website, www.BeReadyLexington.com. The agency is also active on social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and X, where they share valuable information regarding emergency management.
Schools throughout the state, including Garrett Morgan Elementary, have been incorporating drill exercises into their curriculum, emphasizing the importance of emergency weather plans. Students at Garrett Morgan Elementary participated in drills, practicing important hunkering down procedures in secure locations.
Emergency management officials highlight the necessity of familiarizing oneself with safety procedures, particularly as Kentucky faces numerous severe weather incidents each year. In fact, the state experiences approximately 110 to 130 days of thunderstorm risk annually, which may include the threat of tornadoes.
Conclusion: Preparedness is Key
The upcoming tornado drill serves as a vital reminder for families and students alike to prioritize preparedness and approach severe weather with the seriousness it demands. As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, this drill is essential not only for those in Lexington but for all residents in Kentucky to ensure they are well-prepared in the event of a real emergency.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kentucky Weather Alert: Winds and Rain on the Horizon
Kentucky Residents Prepare for Annual Tornado Drill
Important Siren Testing Scheduled in Lexington and Calvert County
Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
