Athens Reporter

Athens-Clarke County and the University of Georgia are set to conduct their annual tests of outdoor tornado warning sirens and emergency alert systems on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at around 9:00 AM. Should adverse weather conditions arise, the test will be deferred to Friday, February 7 at the same time. These tests are part of the statewide Severe Weather Preparedness Week from February 3-7.

"Severe weather emergencies are possible in Athens-Clarke County any time of year," stated Nate Moss, Athens-Clarke County Fire Chief and Fire Department Director. "Some of these hazards could include ice storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, and other types of serious weather events. Everyone in the community should spend some time when these events are not an immediate concern to plan and prepare for each of these weather emergencies at their homes and workplaces."

Residents can subscribe to email and text alerts through the Notify Me section on www.accgov.com/notifyme. UGA Alert registration is available at www.ugaalert.uga.edu with a UGA MyID.

The area hosts 12 tornado warning sirens located strategically near populated outdoor spaces such as Sandy Creek Park and Southeast Clarke Park among others. These sirens serve as a signal for residents outdoors to seek shelter when a tornado warning is issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). While audible indoors under certain conditions, they primarily target those outside during such warnings or tests.

This drill aligns with efforts by the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency’s (GEMA/HS) during Severe Weather Preparedness Week to encourage readiness for severe weather events typically peaking in spring months.

Ready Georgia offers guidelines for preparing before drills including assembling a "Ready Kit" for three days' self-sufficiency and understanding tornado-related terminology like watches versus warnings.

During drills participants simulate response actions akin to real tornado warnings by evacuating to safe areas using stairs instead of elevators until instructed otherwise.

Post-drill evaluations aim at refining safety procedures by addressing potential improvements or clarifications needed within designated safe zones or communication methods about impending threats.

The Athens-Clarke County Fire Department advocates visiting Ready Georgia's website for further emergency preparedness resources while GEMA/HS urges schools, businesses, and organizations alike to assess their readiness plans during this awareness week focusing daily on different aspects from family preparedness with NOAA radios on Monday through flood safety measures by Friday.

For more information on severe weather preparation visit Ready Georgia or contact local fire services via provided web links.

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