When the outdoor warning sirens sound, it means that you are in danger outside. You need to get to shelter and find out more about what the danger is: “Get In and Get Info!”
Monthly test
The siren system is tested on the first Wednesday of every month at 1 p.m.
If there is a potential problem with a siren, email us as soon as possible so we can make sure it's fixed.
Uses
- The Outdoor Warning System is used mainly for severe weather but could be used for other dangers if necessary.
- For severe weather, Ramsey County sirens are sounded for all tornado warnings and for severe thunderstorms with wind speeds of 70 or more miles per hour.
- Sirens sound for three minutes and then automatically turn off to preserve their batteries. If they sound again that means there is a new danger such as a second tornado warning. Sirens are never sounded for an "all clear." You must listen to the radio or TV to find out if it is safe outside.
- Sirens are not meant to warn or be heard by people who are already indoors. They don't tell you what the actual danger is, and the system takes longer than other alert methods, such as Wireless Emergency Alerts and NOAA All Hazards Radios. We recommend that the sirens be considered a backup warning method and that individuals rely primarily on other services like those mentioned above as their main source for warnings.
System
- Though each city owns its own sirens, they are activated by the Ramsey County Emergency Communications Center.
- The Ramsey County siren system is capable of sounding individual sirens in areas covered by a National Weather Service warning. This means if a siren near you is sounding, it is within the area under a warning. Sirens may still be able to be heard outside that warning area though, so always remember to check your local tv or radio for details.
