South Carolina Scheduled for Statewide Tornado Drill Wednesday Morning

Emergency sirens and weather radios will sound across the state tomorrow morning as South Carolina conducts its annual statewide tornado drill. Scheduled for Wednesday, March 11, at 9:00 AM, the exercise is the primary event of the state’s severe weather and flood safety week.

The drill is a coordinated effort between the South Carolina Emergency Management Division and the National Weather Service. It serves as a test of communication systems and personal safety plans before the peak of the spring severe weather season.

Drill Procedures and Timing

At 9:00 AM, the National Weather Service will trigger a required weekly test code on NOAA weather radios. This signal will also be broadcast by local radio and television stations via the emergency alert system.

Participants are encouraged to treat the signal as a real tornado warning by practicing their safety routines:

• At school or work, individuals should move in an orderly fashion to pre-designated interior rooms or hallways on the lowest floor.

• At home, residents should seek shelter in a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room like a closet or bathroom away from windows.

• Those in mobile homes are encouraged to use the drill to identify the nearest sturdy building to use as a primary shelter.

Purpose and Safety Context

South Carolina frequently experiences tornadic activity, particularly during the months of March, April, and May. The governor designated this week for safety awareness to ensure residents are prepared for unpredictable spring weather patterns.

Beyond testing the physical alert systems, state officials emphasize that the drill helps build the habit of knowing exactly where to go without hesitation when seconds count.