Calhoun County to Join Michigan Statewide Tornado Drill on March 18

Calhoun County is getting ready to test its emergency response systems. For the first time, the county will participate in Michigan's annual statewide tornado drill on March 18, giving residents, businesses, and organizations a chance to practice their severe weather safety plans.

The drill is part of Michigan Severe Weather Awareness Week, which runs from March 15 to 21. The timing could not be better... just days after the devastating tornado that struck Union City in neighboring Branch County, reminding everyone that severe weather preparedness is not just a drill... it is a necessity.

The Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority is coordinating the local effort, working with emergency response partners across the county to practice procedures as if responding to an actual tornado warning.

"Participating in this statewide tornado drill gives our dispatchers and emergency partners an opportunity to practice real-world procedures while helping residents prepare themselves and their families," said Michael Armitage, executive director of the Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority. "When severe weather happens, seconds matter. Practicing now ensures we're ready to respond quickly and effectively."

Here is what residents can expect on March 18:

At 12:59 p.m., a live Wireless Emergency Alert test will be conducted across Calhoun, Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties. Your phone may buzz with a test alert... do not be alarmed.

At 1 p.m., the countywide opt-in alert system will be tested, sending notifications via text, phone, and email to registered users. If you are signed up, you will receive a test message.

Throughout Severe Weather Awareness Week, public safety messaging will be shared on social media to help educate residents about tornado safety and preparedness.

Emergency response partners will coordinate their efforts, practicing the exact procedures they would use during a real tornado emergency.

The drill serves as an important reminder for every household to ask critical preparedness questions. Do you have a plan? Where will you go when a warning is issued? What will you do to stay safe? Do you know the difference between watches and warnings? How will you communicate with family members and coworkers during an emergency?

Residents are strongly encouraged to sign up for Calhoun County emergency alerts if they have not already done so. The alert system provides timely notifications about severe weather and other emergencies that may impact the community. Those already signed up should take a moment to confirm their contact information is current.

Statewide Severe Weather Preparedness and Awareness Weeks are held each spring for good reason. The observance is scheduled ahead of Michigan's typical severe weather season, giving communities time to prepare before storms become more frequent.

The coordinated tornado drill allows everyone to test their emergency plans and communication methods in a safe, controlled setting. When the real thing happens, muscle memory from these drills can save lives.

For Battle Creek and Calhoun County residents, the recent Union City tornado is a sobering reminder that severe weather can strike close to home. While we cannot prevent tornadoes, we can prepare for them.

Take advantage of this drill. When the test alert comes through at 12:59 p.m. on March 18, treat it like the real thing. Head to your designated safe place, practice your family communication plan, and make sure everyone knows what to do.

For more information about tornado safety and preparedness before, during, and after severe weather, visit Michigan.gov/MIReady.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the statewide tornado drill in Calhoun County?
A: The drill will take place on March 18, 2026. A Wireless Emergency Alert test will be conducted at 12:59 p.m., followed by the countywide alert system test at 1 p.m.

Q: How can I sign up for Calhoun County emergency alerts?
A: Residents can sign up for the county's opt-in alert system to receive notifications via text, phone, and email. Visit the Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority website or search "Calhoun County emergency alerts" to register.

Q: What should I do during the tornado drill?
A: Treat the drill like a real tornado warning. Go to your designated safe place (typically a basement or interior room on the lowest floor), practice your family communication plan, and review your emergency preparedness kit. Use this as an opportunity to identify any gaps in your safety plan.