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Wednesday’s Severe Weather Awareness Week topic focuses on a word that intimidates many, tornadoes. The National Weather Service has three different classifications they use to relay tornado information to the public.
A watch is defined as a time when conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the watch area. Typically watches are issued for around 4-8 hours well in advance of the actual occurrence of severe weather.
A warning is issued when a tornado is indicated by radar or sighted by spotters and urges people in the affected area to seek shelter immediately.
And a tornado emergency is used to highlight a confirmed tornado that is expected to result in significant, widespread damage with a high likelihood of numerous fatalities.
At approximately 10:10am Wednesday the National Weather Service will issue a statewide test tornado warning. During this time, Marion County Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff Anderson encourages everyone to test out their plans.
Anderson says there are a variety of things that should be thought about and planned through before an emergency occurs including location, necessary supplies and emergency materials.
KNIA/KRLS will participate in this drill through our Emergency Alert System. Anytime there is a severe weather warning in any portion of Marion County, you can count on the KNIA/KRLS Severe Weather Action Team to bring you the latest severe weather information first, fast and accurately.
For more tornado information CLICK HERE.

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