When weather gets extreme, be alert and prepared
Posted on 03/22/2021
Stormy weather can lead to tornadoesWith warmer weather on the way, it is time to remember the steps to take in the event of severe weather. Every year, people are killed or injured by tornadoes or high winds, which can bring down trees and power lines, and also cause serious structural damage to your home.

The National Weather Service will issue a Tornado or Severe Thunderstorm Watch when weather conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop, including the possibility of tornadoes. Put away small objects such as garbage cans or bicycles, which could become dangerous if tossed around during strong winds. A Tornado or Severe Thunderstorm Warning will be issued when a tornado has been sighted or when a tornado or severe thunderstorm is indicated on radar.

The City of Northville has three outdoor warning sirens that can be activated to provide advance warning of impending severe weather. They are located on Cady Street by the library, on Taft Road north of Eight Mile Road, and in the vicinity of South Main Street and Seven Mile Road. These sirens will be activated by the dispatch center in the event of a Tornado Warning, or a Severe Thunderstorm Warning with winds of 70 miles per hour. The sirens will sound for three minutes, and this is your signal to immediately seek shelter. Be prepared to seek shelter in an interior room on the lowest level of your home or any other available, sturdy building. Avoid windows. When safely inside, check weather reports to learn what’s happening. Avoid calling dispatch just for weather information as they will be busy attending to emergency needs.

The outdoor warning sirens are tested on the first Saturday of each month from March through November, at 1 p.m. They are also activated at 1 p.m. on the Wednesday of Severe Weather Awareness Week, which this year falls on March 24.

Oakland County has more information about Severe Weather Week. View it here.

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