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1. What do the sirens mean?

• The OWSS will be activated upon receipt of a tornado warning issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Polk County.
• Severe Thunderstorm Warnings where forecasted or actual wind speeds reach or exceed 70mph (61kts)
• Sirens will sound in a cycle of 3-5 minutes, followed by a 10-15-minute break for the duration of the threat (warning period).

Please note that cities do perform a monthly siren test to ensure all sirens are functioning. The entire system is tested at one p.m. on the first Saturday of each month unless severe weather is imminent. 

2. What Should I Do if I Hear the Sirens?

When the sirens are heard, go inside and tune in to local media to get more information.

3. Why can’t I hear the outdoor warning sirens in my house?

Sirens are an outdoor warning system designed only to alert those who are outside that something dangerous is approaching.

4. What is the difference between a watch and warning?

A Tornado WATCH means Be Prepared. A Tornado WARNING means Take Action! weather.gov/safety/tornado-ww

5. What to do during flooding

 Don’t underestimate the power of water. It only takes 6 inches of fast-moving water to knock over and carry away an adult, and 12 inches to carry away a small car. Turn Around Don’t Drown!