Jefferson Lab's regularly scheduled tornado siren test moved to March 11
NEWPORT NEWS, VA – The U.S. Department of Energy's Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility has moved its regularly scheduled tornado siren test from Friday, March 7, to Tuesday, March 11, to partner with the Commonwealth of Virginia and the National Weather Service for "Severe Weather Awareness Week."
"Participating in our statewide tornado drill is not only about reinforcing safety protocols, it's an engaging way for communities to connect and learn about how to prepare for severe weather," said Tina Johnson, senior emergency manager at Jefferson Lab. "We encourage everyone, from local organizations to families at home, to take this opportunity seriously and make the drill a part of your routine safety plan."
During the drill, Jefferson Lab's tornado siren will activate in the same pattern as its monthly test. The test could last up to three minutes, and the siren will have a wavering tone (also called high-low-high or 10-4-10). Depending on weather conditions at the time of the test, the siren could be heard by anyone within a 1.5-mile radius of the lab.
The siren is a vital safety tool used to alert members of the community to seek shelter when a tornado or tornado warning is issued for the immediate area. The statewide drill is part of an annual initiative to improve readiness, responsiveness, and overall resilience against severe weather during the upcoming season.
Key Points for the 2025 Drill:
When: Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 9:45 a.m. EDT
(In the event of actual severe weather on the morning of March 11, the drill will be postponed to Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 9:45 a.m. EDT.)
How: The drill will be broadcast via the Required Monthly Test on NOAA Weather Radio and the Emergency Alert System.
NOAA Weather Radio Alert Tips: If you don't have access to a NOAA Weather Radio, simply begin your drill and activate your safety plan at 9:45 a.m.
Drill Conclusion: There will be no official "end" announcement from the National Weather Service. The drill concludes when your group, school, business, organization or family has sufficiently practiced its tornado shelter procedures.
Contact Michelle Alvarez, Jefferson Lab Communications Office, malvarez@jlab.org