MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Minnesota Public Safety: Severe Weather Awareness Week Underway Across Minnesota - Statewide Tornado Drills Set for April 16

MINNESOTA (April 15, 2026)

Minnesota is observing Severe Weather Awareness Week from April 13 through April 17, an annual statewide initiative led by the Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management in coordination with the National Weather Service to promote preparedness for seasonal weather hazards.

State officials say the campaign is designed to educate residents on the risks associated with severe weather and to encourage households, schools, and businesses to review emergency plans and preparedness measures ahead of peak storm season.

Statewide Tornado Drills

The central events of the week are the statewide tornado drills, scheduled for Thursday, April 16 at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. CDT.

During both drills:

• Outdoor warning sirens will sound statewide
• A simulated tornado warning will be issued
• Alerts will be broadcast عبر weather radios, television, and radio systems

The 1:45 p.m. drill is intended for schools, businesses, and institutions, while the 6:45 p.m. drill is designed to reach families and second-shift workers.

Emergency management officials note that the drills are intended to test public alert systems and provide an opportunity for residents to practice seeking shelter in a controlled setting.

Purpose of the Awareness Week

Severe Weather Awareness Week serves as a statewide reminder of the risks posed by tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, flooding, and extreme heat. Officials emphasize that preparation and awareness are critical to reducing injuries and fatalities during severe weather events.

The campaign encourages residents to:

• Develop and practice emergency shelter plans
• Identify safe locations within homes and workplaces
• Assemble or update emergency preparedness kits
• Ensure access to multiple weather alert systems

Tornado Risk in Minnesota

Data from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources indicate that Minnesota averages approximately 46 tornadoes per year.

Recent data highlights variability in annual activity:

• 83 tornadoes were recorded in 2022, among the highest yearly totals on record
• The all-time record remains 113 tornadoes in 2010

While the peak tornado season typically runs from May through August, officials note that tornadoes have occurred outside that window, including as early as March and as late as December in recent years.

Preparedness Guidance

Emergency management agencies advise that understanding warning systems and taking immediate action during a tornado warning can significantly reduce risk.

Recommended actions include:

• Moving to a basement or lowest level of a building
• Seeking shelter in an interior, windowless room if no basement is available
• Protecting the head and body from flying debris
• Using multiple alert methods, as outdoor sirens are designed primarily for people outdoors

Officials emphasize that Severe Weather Awareness Week is intended not only as a public information campaign but as a practical opportunity for residents to test and strengthen their emergency readiness.

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