NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University, in collaboration with the National Weather Service, the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and local emergency management offices, is gearing up for tornado drills in March to prepare for severe weather. The University will conduct a tornado drill on Wednesday, March 6, at 11 a.m., with a backup date set for Friday, March 8, in case of inclement weather.

"Preparation is key in order for us to understand the opportunities we have to improve our emergency response plans," said University Police Chief Dr. Clarence Green. "It is not often that you have a chance to observe and critique your plans with the entire campus prior to deployment in an actual event. The University Police Department thanks the entire campus in advance for their participation and feedback."

During the drill, Northwest students and employees are urged to familiarize themselves with severe weather procedures and know where to seek shelter when they hear broadcast drill messages or outdoor warning sirens. The University emphasizes the importance of knowing the safest shelter locations, especially in areas where tornado shelters may not exist.

The annual tornado drill at Northwest aligns with a statewide effort led by the National Weather Service, SEMA, and local emergency managers to help Missourians prepare for dangerous tornadoes, severe storms, lightning, and flooding. Missouri’s emergency management website offers detailed videos demonstrating how to take shelter in various types of buildings and essential information about tornado sirens and weather alert radios.

In addition to the scheduled tornado drill, Northwest tests its warning system every Wednesday at 11 a.m., weather permitting. Any activation of the warning system outside of the regular testing time should be treated as an actual emergency, prompting immediate action.

For more information on preparing for severe weather at the Northwest campus, individuals can contact the University Police Department at 660.562.1254 or visit the University's website.