COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, in partnership with the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness (OCSWA), the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, and the National Weather Service, has declared Spring Severe Weather Awareness Week, which will take place from March 19-25.
The announcement comes as a reminder to Ohioans to prepare themselves for severe weather and home emergencies, urging residents to learn how to stay safe during inclement weather. With the unpredictable nature of Ohio’s weather, particularly in the spring, Governor DeWine has advised residents to make or review their emergency plan and build an emergency kit.
“Severe weather can impact Ohio at any time of year, so it’s important that residents are prepared for the possibility of a weather emergency,” said Governor DeWine. Executive Director of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, Sima Merick, added that Ohio’s weather can often be unpredictable, especially in the spring when temperatures fluctuate between warm and cold, which can lead to severe weather, including tornadoes.
The week will include a statewide tornado drill on March 22 at 9:50 a.m. to test emergency and sheltering plans, with local communities, schools, and businesses encouraged to participate.
