Save the date: March 20 is Statewide Tornado Drill

VDEM

10501 Trade Court
Richmond, Virginia 23236

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feb. 6, 2012

CONTACT: Bob Spieldenner
 (804) 897-6510
bob.spieldenner@vdem.virginia.gov

Save the date: March 20 is Statewide Tornado Drill

RICHMOND, Va. – Registration is now open for the March 20 Statewide Tornado Drill.  Businesses and organizations, schools and colleges, and families and individuals can practice taking cover from tornadoes by participating in this annual safety exercise, set for 9:45 a.m. 

“Last year 51 twisters hit Virginia, the second highest number on record,” said Michael Cline, state coordinator for emergency management.  “But more importantly, communities are still healing from the affects of those tornadoes that killed 10 people, injured more than 100, and destroyed 212 homes and 17 businesses.  It’s vitally important that everyone know what to do if a tornado warning is issued for their area.” 

The annual drill is a joint effort of the National Weather Service and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.  To start the drill, at approximately 9:45 a.m., the NWS will send a test tornado warning that will trigger a tone alert and broadcast message on NOAA Weather Radio, simulating what listeners will hear during an actual tornado warning.

Although registration is not required, people participating in the Statewide Tornado Drill are encouraged to sign up to show their support.  Learn more about tornado safety, how to hold a drill, and how to register for the drill at  http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stayinformed/tornadoes.

Here’s a look back at tornadoes in Virginia during 2011:

  • 51 tornadoes hit, the second highest number on record (87 struck in 2004)
  • In April, 10 people died and more than 100 were injured
  • Most tornadoes occurred during April, but tornadoes also were recorded in March, May, August, September, October and November
  • In April, 212 homes and 17 businesses were destroyed; more than 1,050 homes and businesses were damaged
  • Nearly every part of Virginia experienced tornadoes during 2011, including mountainous Southwest Virginia.  Other areas hit: Southside Virginia, Roanoke Valley, Shenandoah Valley, Central Virginia, Northern Virginia, Middle Peninsula and Hampton Roads
  • One-third of the tornadoes struck at night, including the deadly EF3 tornado that hit Washington County around 1 a.m. April 28

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