Active spring pattern across the center of our nation with several episodes of severe weather and heavy rainfall expected into next week. The potential for very large hail, long track tornadoes, severe wind gusts, frequent cloud to ground lightning strikes and flash flooding are in the outlook. Furthermore, dangerous early season heat wave continues for the Gulf Coast states into early next week. Read More >
Severe Storms Awareness Week
April 8 - 14, 2024
Click here for quick info on each of the thunderstorm threats & ways to stay safe.
NOAA's National Weather Service and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management are teaming up for Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week, which will run from April 8-14, 2024.
Even if you can't do it at that time, you can still do your own drill anytime this week when it fits your schedule!
A tornado drill message will be sent over NOAA Weather Radio at 10:00am on Wednesday April 10th. It is also being broadcast over the Emergency Alert System (EAS) as a Required Monthly Test (RMT) code for Maryland. It will tone alert over NOAA weather radio for Maryland counties, however the test RMT code may not trigger all weather radio receivers. Cell phones will not be alerted as part of this test.
This drill will offer a chance for Marylanders to test their response to a NWS Tornado Warning (imminent tornado threat). Anyone who would like to participate with their school, business, family, or on their own can activate their emergency plan for what they would do given an actual tornado warning. Plans can readily be developed using the www.ready.gov website.
Of course, as a general rule, the most important thing to remember is to head to the lowest small interior room where you are - away from windows. Put as much "structure" as possible between you and the outside.