...MARYLAND STATEWIDE TORNADO DRILL...

This is a test message from the National Weather Service. This test message initiates the Maryland Statewide Tornado Drill. There is NO severe weather occurring at this time.  The National Weather Service and Maryland Emergency Management Agency encourage all Marylanders to either complete or review your severe weather or tornado safety plan at this time. 

When a real tornado warning is issued for your community, a tornado has either been spotted nearby, or its signature has been detected by the National Weather Service using Doppler radar.  When a real tornado warning is issued, get to the basement or interior portion of the lowest level of a building, preferably in a small room such as a closet or bathroom.  Stay away from windows.  Get as many walls as possible between you and the outside part of the structure.  If you are in a mobile home or vehicle, leave it and get into a reinforced building or home, if possible.  If that is not possible, seek shelter in a low lying area such as a ditch or ravine.  

If you were not able to practice your severe weather or tornado safety plan at this time, please do so today as you are able. If you need to create your family or business plan, go to ready.gov.