05-02-2025
Hurricanes aren't the only hazard so Florida has tornado drill today. Here's what happens
This week is Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week.
The National Weather Service is highlighting a different hazard each day between Feb. 3 through Feb. 7. If you have a weather alert radio, watch for a tornado drill today.
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"Severe Weather Awareness Week is a great reminder that Florida's weather can be unpredictable, making preparedness essential," said Kevin Guthrie, executive director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management.
"From hurricanes and tornadoes to thunderstorms and flooding, severe weather can strike at any time. Having a plan, staying informed and knowing how to respond are key to staying safe."
A statewide tornado drill is scheduled for approximately 10 a.m. EST, weather permitting, the Florida Division of Emergency Services said. If severe weather is expected on Wednesday, the drill will be postponed to Friday, Feb. 7, at 10 a.m. EST.
"School districts, private schools, preschools and daycare centers are encouraged to participate in the drill to prepare their faculty and students on what to do for potential tornadic activity," the agency said.
The tornado drill will be transmitted over weather radios, said Megan Tollefsen, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service Melbourne. It won't trigger the Florida emergency alert system, and you won't get an alert on your phone.
So check your weather radio today to see if you received the drill.
The week is a cooperative effort between the National Weather Service and the Florida Division of Emergency Management intended to spread "awareness of severe weather hazards" residents could encounter.
The agencies said they want to "ensure that Florida residents and visitors are better informed and prepared for potential severe weather."
Each day of Florida's Severe Weather Awareness Week highlights the information and preparation tips on different types of severe weather as follows:
Monday, Feb. 3: Lightning
Tuesday, Feb. 4: Marine hazards and rip currents
Wednesday, Feb. 5: Thunderstorms and tornadoes
Thursday, Feb. 6: Hurricanes and flooding
Friday, Feb. 7 : Temperature extremes and wildfires
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This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Florida Severe Weather Awareness week 2025. Tornado drill Feb. 5
