What Was That? Statewide Tornado Drill Again at 6:55 p.m. Thursday

If you were surprised to hear sirens at 1:45 p.m. Thursday, don't be shocked when they sound again at 6:55 p.m. It's part of a statewide tornado drill, held during Severe Weather Awareness Week, with schools, workplaces and households encouraged to review and practice responses to severe weather.

Minnesota has held an annual tornado drill for more than 20 years, according to the state Department of Public Safety. The afternoon drill is especially for schools and businesses with first-shift workers. The evening drill is meant for families at home and second-shift workers.

Many in Fridley know firsthand about the devastation tornadoes can deliver—particularly oldtimers who were here on May 6, 1965 when the worst series of twisters ever to hit the Twin Cities swept through Fridley.

Tornado Resources
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has a tip sheet for sheltering when tornadoes threaten, and the National Weather Service offers detailed online information about tornadic weather.