BROWARD COUNTY, FL - The Florida Statewide Tornado Drill is scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at 10AM. Broward Emergency Management Division wants everyone to be ready in case of a tornado. The drill is part of Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week which warns residents of the dangers of Lightning, Marine Hazards and Rip Currents, Tornadoes, Hurricanes, and Extreme Temperatures and Wildfires.  

A tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from the base of a thunderstorm down to the ground. Tornadoes are capable of destroying well-made structures, uprooting trees and hurling objects through the air like deadly missiles. Tornadoes can occur at any time of day or night and any time of the year. 

In January of 2016, Broward County experienced the devasting effects of an EF-1 tornado that moved across Coconut Creek and Pompano Beach. Although the damage was isolated to the two cities, it was significant. Broward Emergency Management Division is encouraging participation of this voluntary drill to ensure readiness. 

On the morning of the drill, participants should consider themselves under a Tornado Watch and monitor the weather to be prepared to go to a safe place in the event of a warning. At approximately 10AM, the National Weather Service will issue a practice Tornado Warning. The warning will be broadcasted on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Alert Radio as a "routine weekly test" message and upon determining the immediate threat, it will give a "take shelter" or "duck and cover" command. School districts, private schools, preschools and daycare centers are also encouraged to participate. 

This annual drill is coordinated through the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) and NOAA and is part of Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week taking place now through February 11. 

For more information and tips on severe weather, go to the Broward Emergency Management Division's website broward.org/emergency or on social media at facebook.com/BrowardEMD.