The Wapello County Emergency Management Agency (WCEMA), in partnership with the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM), the National Weather Service (NWS), and the Iowa Emergency Management Association (IEMA), is promoting Severe Weather Awareness Week from March 23-27, 2026.
Severe Weather Awareness Week is an important opportunity to remind residents of the need to stay alert and prepared for severe weather. Each day of the week will focus on a different safety topic:
- Monday, March 23 – Lightning Safety
- Tuesday, March 24 – Tornado Safety
- Wednesday, March 25 – Preparedness
- Thursday, March 26 – Hail and Wind Safety
- Friday, March 27 – Flood Safety
As part of the week, the annual statewide tornado drill will be held on Wednesday, March 25, at 10 a.m. Residents are encouraged to participate to practice tornado safety procedures. More information about the tornado drill is available on local NWS websites.
This year, WCEMA will not hold an in-person storm spotter class; however, a recorded version is available on our website at www.wapelloready.org.
For tips and resources on preparing for severe weather, visit ready.iowa.gov. Stay connected with Wapello County Emergency Management on Facebook at WCEMA and download the Wapello Life app, which provides free weather alerts to help keep you and your family safe.
