As spring approaches, the state of Indiana is gearing up for Severe Weather Preparedness Week, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the risks of severe storms, tornadoes, and other dangerous weather phenomena. This year, the preparedness week will take place from March 13th, 2025, marking an essential opportunity for residents to refresh their emergency plans and ensure they are ready to respond to potential severe weather events.
Severe Weather Preparedness Week is organized by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) in collaboration with the National Weather Service (NWS) and local emergency management agencies. It is designed to equip Hoosiers with the knowledge and tools needed to protect themselves and their families in the event of a tornado, severe thunderstorm, flash flood, or other natural disaster.
With Indiana’s peak severe weather season typically running from March through June, preparedness is crucial. During this time, the state is prone to thunderstorms, tornadoes, hail, and flooding, all of which can cause significant damage. March 13th is particularly significant as it marks the first day of this year’s Severe Weather Preparedness Week, and it will feature a statewide tornado drill designed to help residents practice what to do in case of a real tornado warning.
The tornado drill is scheduled for 10:15 AM local time on March 13th, and it will involve the activation of tornado warning sirens and weather radios across Indiana. Residents are encouraged to participate by seeking shelter in their designated safe areas and ensuring they know the safest locations in their homes, schools, or workplaces. This drill aims to help individuals and families practice responding to severe weather alerts and reinforce the importance of having an emergency kit ready, as well as a reliable way to receive weather warnings.
“While we can never predict exactly when or where a severe weather event will strike, we can prepare ourselves and our communities to respond effectively,” said Jim Barlow, Director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. “Severe Weather Preparedness Week is about building awareness and ensuring that every Hoosier knows what steps to take to stay safe. The March 13th tornado drill is a key part of that preparation, and we encourage everyone to participate.”
In addition to the tornado drill, this week will also feature a series of educational events and resources designed to help Hoosiers understand the risks they face and how to mitigate them. These include online webinars, community outreach programs, and information on how to create emergency plans and secure homes against severe weather. Local television stations, radio stations, and weather apps will also play a key role in providing up-to-date information on weather alerts during this week and throughout the rest of the severe weather season.
As part of the initiative, residents will also be reminded of the importance of having a weather radio that can provide real-time alerts, especially if the power goes out. Another crucial aspect of preparedness is understanding the different types of severe weather warnings and advisories, such as tornado warnings, severe thunderstorm warnings, and flash flood warnings. Knowing what each alert means can make the difference between life and death during an emergency.
While the official Preparedness Week is focused on the week of March 13th, experts stress that severe weather is possible year-round in Indiana, and continued awareness is vital. As the state moves into the more active severe weather months, having a plan in place, a weather-aware mindset, and a well-stocked emergency kit can significantly improve the safety and well-being of individuals and families.
Hoosiers are encouraged to visit local government websites and social media pages for additional details on events and educational materials available during Severe Weather Preparedness Week. With the arrival of March and the impending storm season, now is the time to get prepared.
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