Tornadoes

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration fired hundreds of employees at the end of February, including meteorologists. Experts and scientists expressed concern that these cuts will affect forecasting systems’ reliability and accuracy.

A National Weather Service spokesperson said winds peaked at around 115 mph, or the equivalent of winds seen during a Category 3 hurricane.

The drill will be broadcasted over NOAA weather radios at 10 a.m. Participation is voluntary, but residents and businesses are encouraged to practice sheltering as if a tornado was threatening.