Story County, as part of a statewide voluntary tornado drill, will test tornado warning sirens on April 1 sometime between 10 and 11 a.m. During this week, the National Weather Service and most towns and cities across Iowa will test their emergency weather procedures, run sirens and perform practice drills to prepare for severe weather events. Severe thunderstorm warning means a severe thunderstorm has been located by radar or a spotter. Flash flood watch means a large amount of rain could cause streams and rivers to swell extremely fast and cause flooding in minutes. Flash flood warning means streams and rivers are flooding rapidly and people living in low-lying areas should seek higher ground immediately.
Tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop.
Taking some precautions to protect family and prepare for tornadoes is recommended. Tune to a radio or TV station for weather information. Tornado warning means a tornado has been seen or detected by radar, and people should take cover immediately. Do not stop for supplies or opening windows. Most communities in Iowa have sirens, and TV and radios will play long steady tones to announce severe weather.