2026 annual statewide tornado drills canceled

According to the National Weather Service in Green Bay and Ready Wisconsin, the annual statewide tornado drills scheduled for today — Thursday, April 16, 2026 — have been canceled. There will not be an alternative date for these drills.

The decision comes as emergency management, local agencies, and people are actively responding and recovering from the impacts of these recent storms. ReadyWisconsin determined proceeding with the scheduled drills would place additional strain on already stretched resources as many communities continue to deal with storm impacts, assessing damage, and supporting affected family members and loved ones.

“While tornado preparedness is critically important, our immediate priority is on the safety and recovery of those impacted by these recent storms,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle. “We recognize the value of these drills, but at this time, our communities need the flexibility and focus on real-world responses.”

“Although today’s statewide exercise has been cancelled, preparedness cannot be cancelled with it,” said Tyler Verhasselt, Director of Emergency Management for Lincoln County.  “This is still a strong opportunity for communities to revisit their tornado and severe weather plans, talk through them, and put them into action.  If a plan does not already exist, this is the right time to build one.”

Lincoln County Emergency Management encourages the public and partner agencies to use today as an opportunity to review tornado and severe weather safety.

Before Severe Weather
Community members should monitor the forecast, stay weather-aware, and make sure they have multiple ways to receive alerts and warnings. Outdoor warning sirens, NOAA Weather Radio, local media, and mobile alerts each play an important role, and no one should rely on a single source for life-safety information. People should also know in advance where they would go if a tornado warning is issued, whether at home, work, school, or in a public building.

During Severe Weather
If a tornado warning is issued or a tornado is observed, people should take shelter immediately.  The safest locations are a basement, storm cellar, or a small interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows.  People should remain in shelter until the threat has passed and continue to monitor trusted sources for updated information.

After Severe Weather

After a storm passes, caution should remain high.  Damaged buildings, broken glass, debris, downed power lines, and utility hazards can all create life-threatening conditions.  People should avoid damaged areas when possible, check for injuries, follow instructions from local officials, and report emergencies through appropriate channels.

Lincoln County Emergency Management also encourages partner agencies and stakeholders to review internal warning procedures, sheltering locations, continuity considerations, and personnel accountability processes.  Severe weather can develop quickly, and preparedness at every level strengthens the resilience of the whole community.

Resources and guidance on tornado safety can be found at https://readywisconsin.wi.gov/tornadoes/.
The next statewide tornado drills for Wisconsin are scheduled for April 15, 2027.