Hibbing has 9 new outdoor warning sirens. Recently installed by Frontline Warning Systems, the new equipment replaces damage and non-functioning sirens that ranged between 30 and 50 years old, according to Fire Chief Erik Jankila.
The sirens, in short, are meant to offer an audible warning that something life-threatening is happening and direct those who hear to go indoors and get more weather information. Most common reasons to sound a siren include a tornado, hail ,wind, etc. Counties and cities own the sirens and therefore decide how and when to activate them.
April 8-12 is Severe Weather Week in Minnesota. This will include a Tornado Drill and sounding of the sirens on Thursday, April 11. Hibbing Fire Department may opt to test the sirens in the coming weeks prior to April 11. If so, dates and times will be communicated in advance to the public.
The Severe Weather Awareness Week campaign helps teach Minnesotans about weather hazards and provides resources to minimize the risks associated with severe weather. Everyone is encouraged to make a plan, build an emergency kit and practice drills. The campaign and the scheduled statewide tornado drills are conducted in collaboration with the National Weather Service.
In addition to the sirens, 9 new poles with electrical meters were installed by Hibbing Public Utilities.
