Indiana officials are urging residents to review their emergency plans as the state observes Severe Weather Preparedness Week, an annual effort designed to help Hoosiers get ready for spring storms.

The campaign, coordinated by the National Weather Service and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, highlights the importance of understanding severe weather risks such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flooding as the state enters its most active storm season.

One of the key events during the week is the statewide tornado drill scheduled for 10:15 a.m. Eastern on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. During the drill, the National Weather Service will issue a test tornado warning through many alert systems, including the Emergency Alert System and NOAA Weather Radio, to simulate a real warning.

Emergency officials encourage schools, businesses, and families to take part in the drill by practicing their tornado safety plans and identifying safe shelter locations.

The preparedness campaign also focuses on educating residents about the difference between weather watches and warnings, recognizing severe weather hazards, and planning ahead before storms strike.

Emergency managers recommend every household have a plan that includes identifying a safe shelter area-such as a basement or interior room on the lowest level of a building-and maintaining multiple ways to receive weather alerts.

Officials say the annual preparedness week serves as a reminder that planning ahead can save lives when severe weather threatens Indiana communities.