LENAWEE CO. — Michigan residents are being encouraged to take part in a statewide tornado drill next week as part of Severe Weather Awareness Week.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared March 15th through the 21st as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Michigan. The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division is asking communities, businesses, and families to participate in a voluntary tornado drill scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 18th.
The reminder comes after deadly tornadoes struck parts of Southwest Michigan earlier this month, including Branch, Cass, and St. Joseph counties, killing four people and damaging dozens of homes and businesses.
Emergency management officials say residents should understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning, identify a safe place in their home, and prepare an emergency kit with items such as water, food, and important documents.
More information about emergency preparedness is available online at Michigan dot gov slash M i Ready.