TEMA, National Weather Service Encourage Preparedness During Severe Weather Awareness Week
T
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) is partnering with the National Weather Service (NWS) to increase awareness about the risks associated with severe weather threats for Tennesseans ahead of spring.
“With storms, floods, and extreme temperatures becoming harsher and more frequent, the time to prepare is before any concerning forecast,” said TEMA Director Patrick C. Sheehan. “Severe Weather Awareness Week is a reminder to all Tennesseans to act now to be better prepared before the next disaster.”
Tennessee’s Severe Weather Awareness Week (SWAW) will take place February 16 - 22, 2025. Each day will highlight a severe weather topic and provide important safety and preparedness information.
Sunday, Feb. 16: Preparing Before the Storm
Monday, Feb. 17: Flooding/Flash Flooding
Tuesday, Feb. 18: Lightning
Wednesday, Feb. 19: Tornadoes
Thursday, Feb. 20: Severe Thunderstorms
Friday, Feb. 21: Tools to Receive Forecasts and Alerts
Saturday, Feb. 22: Severe Weather Impacts
A highlight of the week will be the statewide tornado drill at 9:30 a.m. CST / 10:30 a.m. EST on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. The drill will also include a statewide test of NOAA weather radios. Schools, businesses, and local communities are encouraged to participate. Please note: The drill date is subject to change based on weather forecasts and conditions. Look for guidance from local officials to determine if your county is participating in the drill.
“Severe Weather Awareness Week is our time to prepare for thunderstorm, tornado, and flood threats. We encourage all Tennesseans, especially those not from around here like myself, to participate and follow along, thinking about how weather may impact you at home, at work or school, and while you're on the road,” said Ryan Husted, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the Nashville Office of the National Weather Service. “Reevaluate and practice your tornado sheltering procedures, plan for and gather the supplies you'll need during a disaster, ensure you have multiple ways to receive life-saving weather information, and learn something new about extreme Tennessee weather."
Communities that are prepared for severe weather are more resilient. The state experiences a range of severe weather throughout the year, so being prepared for potential emergencies and knowing how they could affect your area will make a difference.
Know Your Risk
No matter where you live in Tennessee, it’s important to learn about the potential hazards near you and how to receive emergency alerts.
Make a Plan
Make an emergency plan that considers the unique needs of your family.
Build a Kit
After an emergency, you may not be able to receive immediate help. Build a kit with the essentials your family and pets will need. Have enough supplies for at least three days.
Add a supply kit to your car with automobile extras, including items like: Jumper cables, flares or reflective triangles, car cell phone charger, and more.
Stay Informed
Monitor forecasts from trusted sources and have multiple ways to receive alerts. Check with your area to sign up for local alerts.
Additional details about Severe Weather Awareness Week can be found at https://www.weather.gov/ohx/.
####
About the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency: TEMA’s mission is to coordinate preparedness, response and
recovery from man-made, natural and technological hazards in a professional and efficient manner in concert with our stakeholders. Follow TEMA on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and at tn.gov/tema.