City of St. Louis to Participate in Severe Weather Awareness Week March 13-19, 2016

The City of St. Louis Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) will participate in Missouri Severe Weather Awareness Week from March 13-19, 2016. During the week, CEMA will utilize social media to share important information on local severe weather hazards and tips on how citizens and businesses can be prepared to deal with such hazards. On Tuesday, March 15^th the city will participate in the 41^st Annual Missouri Statewide Tornado Drill at 1:30 PM (weather permitting). CEMA will send out an advisory message to signal the start of the tornado drill. Individuals are encouraged to practice what they would do in an actual tornado warning during the drill. Grab your go bag and head to your shelter place! To make sure that you receive text and or email alerts from CEMA, you can sign up at www.nixle.com using your zip code, or by texting STLCEMA to 888777 from your cellular phone. Nixle is free to use (check with your carrier for applicable charges). This year CEMA will NOT activate the outdoor warning siren system during the tornado drill to avoid disruption of the Missouri Primary Election.

Citizens are encouraged to take three steps towards preparedness, make a plan, build a kit and stay informed. By taking these three steps, individuals and businesses can be more prepared for any disaster that may strike. Information on local hazards and resources to help with preparedness activities can be found on the CEMA website.