NEGAUNEE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Multiple agencies throughout the state are calling on residents to participate in a voluntary statewide tornado drill tomorrow at 1 pm. For the UP, severe weather comes in the early summer months, however the goal of this drill is to develop a plan in response to any tornadoes.
Matt Zika, Meteorologist at National Weather Service told us what we can expect. He told us, “It is just intended to be like at that time for folks to be like what would I do if a weather warning was issued right now and kind of practice their sheltering methods at that time and just kind of think ahead, ok we are not that far away from severe weather season.
According to the National Weather service, the Upper Peninsula averages 1 tornado a year and the average lead time for a tornado to develop is 10 to 15 minutes. When severe weather is in the area, Understanding the difference between a warning and a watch is key for how residents should respond.
Zika told us, “When you hear the word watch it just means everything is in place for the possibility for significant weather. When you hear the word warning on the radio followed by there is a severe thunderstorm warning or tornado warning or your phone activates and tells you there is a tornado warning in your area, that means radar indicates there is severe weather in the immediate area.
Knowing what to look for when a tornado is approaching. Tornadic skies are generally dark and greenish, can have large hail, dark low-lying clouds accompanied by a loud roar.
Be prepared and have an emergency kit ready and tune in to the radio or television for weather updates.
Establish a safe place in your home away from windows and doors.
