Severe weather is expected this afternoon between 3-7 p.m. with the main threat being large hail and damaging winds. Some tornadoes are possible. These storms are forming along the dryline and they are very difficult to predict and can become severe with very little notice. It is important to stay alert. Do not rely on the outdoor warning system as it may not be heard indoors depending on weather conditions and other sound variables.
The main purpose of the outdoor warning system is to alert those that may be outside and need to take shelter. The sirens will sound for winds greater than 70 mph, hail and tornado activity. Allen Fire Department posts information on the AFD Facebook page regarding the alert status when the outdoor warning system is activated.
Remember, sirens aren’t just for tornadoes!
Allen operates 26 outdoor warning sirens that sound during severe weather events, including:
- Large hail greater than 1 inch in diameter
- Winds greater than 70 mph
- Tornado warnings naming Allen in the path
Allen uses data from the National Weather Service, weather radars, and trained storm spotters/public safety officers to determine when these criteria are met. Please do not rely on outdoor warning sirens, as the sound may not adequately penetrate a home to awake sleeping residents. Allen Emergency Management recommends using at least two methods of weather alerting to stay aware, which should include an NOAA weather radio. Learn more about storm and tornado safety.
Stay connected for closure, emergency information
CityofAllen.org is the primary source of closure and emergency information for the City of Allen. Residents also enroll in Hyper-Reach Emergency Notifications to get rapid alerts from National Weather Services about urgent situations. You can choose to receive notifications via telephone call, text and/or email message.
During emergencies, the primary social media channel used to share information is the City of Allen Facebook page.