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

Warren County Emergency Management Coordinator Troy Bass tells KNIA News his office has an app available to the public that gives suggestions and checklists on how to prepare a family or individual for an emergency event.

“If members of your family are not near each other in an emergency event, you can use this app to let each other know if you are ok or if you need help. It’s pretty simple but we just use a smiley face if you are OK, and a frown if you are not OK, and there is also a text option to communicate to let at least somebody know your status.”

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 or Warren County, with backup generators to ensure we stay on-the-air if the power goes out.