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By Anna Skinner
Associate News Editor
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Tornado sirens blared across Indiana on Tuesday morning, sparking confusion for many residents when accompanied by a tornado warning from the National Weather Service (NWS). Both alerts turned out to be a drill.
Tornado drills, often marked by loud, statewide siren tests, are a routine part of spring preparedness as communities brace for the nation’s most active severe‑weather months. Many states hold coordinated drills during “Severe Weather Awareness Week,” typically in March or early April, when warming temperatures and stronger storm systems increase the risk of tornadoes.
The tests are meant to familiarize residents with the sound of the sirens, reinforce what to do when real warnings are issued, and ensure emergency systems are working before peak tornado season arrives.
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The sirens blared at 10:15 a.m.
"Hearing sirens on a Tuesday? That’s not our normal schedule, but it is intentional," Hamilton County Emergency Management posted on Facebook. "Hamilton County is participating in the Statewide Tornado Drill, helping residents, schools, and businesses practice how they would respond to a real tornado warning. Take a moment to identify your safe place and review your plan."
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Was There a Tornado Warning in Indiana?
A tornado warning was issued in Indiana, but it was only a test. A real tornado did not form.
Where Were Tornado Sirens Sounded?
NWS Indianapolis service hydrologist Crystal Pettet told Newsweek the alerts were sounded across the entire state of Indiana. Notifications were posted on NWS websites and social media channels. The test is conducted every year during severe weather preparedness week, typically in the second week of March.
Minutes after the test tornado warning was issued, NWS meteorologists announced that it had expired.
"The Test Tornado Warning has expired, and the Indiana Tornado Drill has ended," the alert said. "We thank all who participated, and hope your safety preparedness programs worked properly. If you have any questions about severe weather safety preparedness, please contact your nearest National Weather Service office, or local Emergency Management Agency, for assistance. The test Tornado Warning and Indiana Statewide Tornado Drill have ended."
Although the tornado warning and the siren were both a drill, a real severe weather threat is in place for central Indiana on Tuesday. The severe weather is expected to develop later today and overnight.
"Thunderstorms will expand into the area late this evening into the overnight," a hazardous weather outlook from NWS Indianapolis said. "Scattered severe storms producing all hazards are possible along with locally heavy rainfall and flooding. The primary timeframe for impacts across central Indiana will be after midnight tonight."
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