A recent article in the Daily Oklahoman brought up an interesting and important point about the meaning of a tornado siren. It actually differs by the city, and some may be surprised to learn what OKC's siren is directing you to do.
In Oklahoma City, a tornado siren is intended only to alert drivers or people outside to check a radio or television weather broadcast. Since the city itself is so large, the tornado siren cannot always be intended to alert for immediate danger as the storm may be several miles away.
Tornado sirens in other cities, though, often mean something different from simply requesting to tune into the weather.
For example, in Bethany, Edmond, Moore and most other smaller communities, a tornado siren indicates residents should immediately seek shelter and take cover.
When Tuning In...
Once checking the weather forecast, you should be aware of the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning.A Tornado Watch, when issued by the National Weather Service for a particular area, means that conditions are right for possible tornado formation, and you should remain alert for any approaching storms.
A Tornado Warning, however, means that a tornado has be sighted or indicated on a weather radar. If it is in your area, you should take cover immediately.
