The National Weather Service and emergency departments around the state will conduct a statewide tornado drill today at 10 a.m., beginning with a mock tornado watch, and followed by a warning.

Pella Police Department Communications Manager Marcia Slycord tells KRLS News those who rely on the outdoor sirens should report any issues if they can’t hear them while outdoors. She says the outdoor warning system is only meant to ensure anyone outside can get to shelter, and those indoors or driving should rely on 92.1 KRLS when severe thunderstorms and tornadoes strike to get the most up-to-date, local information.

KNIA/KRLS is on the air with live coverage anytime a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning is issued in any portion of Marion County or Warren County assisted by Weatherology Meteorologists. Chief Weatherology Meteorologist Paul Trambley tells KNIA News what their objective is during KNIA/KRLS Severe Weather Action Team coverage.

“Our goal is to really paint the picture of what is going on, giving updates regularly during your coverage while the warning is in effect. To give you the picture of where the most dangerous part of the storm is located, where it is heading, and who could potentially be in the path of it. And also what is the area of main concern during the storm. Is it a tornado, is there a tornado on the ground, or are we looking at large hail. That is what we can answer.”

KNIA/KRLS is broadcasting a special program about how we cover severe weather during the statewide tornado drill, which includes interviews with local and state officials about the different aspects of severe weather and how to keep you and your families safe. KNIA/KRLS is on the air with live coverage anytime a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning is issued in any portion of Marion County, with backup generators to ensure we stay on-the-air if the power goes out.