If you hear the tornado sirens going off at 9:15 a.m. today, no worries. It’s just a drill.

Governor Tate Reeves has declared February 14-19, 2022, as Spring Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Mississippi. According to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, last year there were 76 tornadoes confirmed in Mississippi, 50 of those occurring during the spring. May was the most active month last year, with a total of 27 tornadoes, breaking that month’s record of tornadoes since 1950.

“Knowing the precautions to take in advance of severe weather saves lives,” said Reeves. “I encourage all Mississippians to review their existing severe whether preparedness plan or create one if you haven’t already done so. The best way to stay safe is to have a plan in place before disaster strikes.”

In MEMA’s Disaster Guide there are directions on how to make a supply kit and what to take into consideration as you prepare for tornadoes and other severe weather.

“It’s important to remember that severe weather extends far beyond just tornadoes. Damaging wind, hail, flooding, and lightning are also dangerous hazards associated with severe weather and Mississippi experiences it all,” said MEMA Executive Director Stephen McCraney.