PIERRE, S.D. (Press Release) – There is still snow on the ground, but South Dakota officials say the time is now to start preparing for this summer’s eventual severe weather.

Next week, April 22-26, has been designated as Severe Weather Awareness Week in South Dakota. Tina Titze, director of the South Dakota Office of Emergency Management, says this is a good time to start thinking about what to do when severe thunderstorms or tornadoes impact the state.

“In just the last few weeks, we have seen the impact winter storms can have; spring and summer weather is no different,” she says. “Severe weather will eventually occur, and everyone needs to be prepared.”

The week is used by state and local officials to urge people to start making preparations. Titze says it is too late to prepare when the thunderstorm or tornado is already impacting your area.

“Now is the time when families should discuss what to do if severe weather happens,” she says. “Where do you go if you are outside when a thunderstorm begins or what do you do if a tornado warning is issued? Those are important things to be ready for.”

A statewide tornado drill will be held Wednesday, April 24. The test watch is scheduled for 10 a.m. CDT (9 a.m. MDT) with the warning issued at 10:15 a.m. CDT (9:15 a.m. MDT).

In most communities on Wednesday, severe weather sirens will be sounded. People are reminded that it is only a test unless otherwise announced.

For more information on how to be ready for severe weather, click onto www.bready.sd.gov.

The Office of Emergency Management is part of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.