Georgia holding statewide tornado drill Wednesday as part of Severe Weather Preparedness Week

Georgia residents, schools, and businesses will participate in a statewide tornado drill at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 5, as part of Severe Weather Preparedness Week, according to the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS).

February 4, 2025

Tucker Sargent,

ATLANTA (41NBC/WMGT) – Georgia residents, schools, and businesses will participate in a statewide tornado drill at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 5, as part of Severe Weather Preparedness Week, according to the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS).

The drill, coordinated in partnership with the National Weather Service (NWS), serves as a reminder to review emergency plans and determine safe shelter locations in case of a tornado warning. GEMA/HS urges Georgians to take part in Ready Georgia’s PrepareAthon! for Tornado Safety and visit gema.georgia.gov/tornado-drill-procedures for more details.

“This past year alone, Georgia has experienced two major hurricanes, winter storms, and significant flooding, reminding us just how unpredictable, diverse and powerful Mother Nature can be,” GEMA/HS Director Chris Stallings said. “Severe Weather Preparedness Week is a critical time to reflect on these events and ensure we’re ready for the next challenge. By learning safety tips, reviewing emergency plans, and staying prepared, we can protect our families, homes, and communities from the impact of natural disasters. Preparation today can make all the difference tomorrow.”

Severe Weather Preparedness Week runs February 3-7 and focuses on a different safety topic each day:

Monday, February 3 – Family Preparedness/NOAA Weather Radio Day: Residents are encouraged to purchase a NOAA Weather Radio and establish an out-of-state emergency contact.
Tuesday, February 4 – Thunderstorm Safety: Learn the difference between a thunderstorm watch and a warning.
Wednesday, February 5 – Tornado Safety: Participate in the statewide tornado drill at 9:30 a.m. and identify a safe shelter.
Thursday, February 6 – Lightning Safety: Follow the 30/30 rule—if thunder follows lightning in less than 30 seconds, seek shelter and remain inside for 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.
Friday, February 7 – Flash Flooding & Flood Safety: Secure important documents in watertight containers and add them to your emergency kit.

GEMA/HS and the NWS will distribute preparedness information through social media and toolkits for local emergency management officials throughout the campaign.

For more resources on severe weather safety, visit gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia or follow @GeorgiaEMAHS on X, Instagram and Facebook.