See an important update to this story!

The National Weather Service will issue two test tornado warnings today; one at 10:15 a.m. EDT and another at 7:35 p.m. EDT. The NWS will use the same procedures and technology it uses for real tornado warnings.

If the test times pass without you becoming aware of the tests, that very likely means that if the NWS issues a real tornado warning at that time a weekday, you might not get the warning.

Not knowing about a tornado warning could cost you your life!

So, make a mental note today to think about this at around 8 p.m. tonight. If you realize you missed either of today’s tests, take steps to improve your ability to receive weather warnings. I blogged about ways to do that last year. Here’s a link to that blog post.

Today’s test will help public officials know whether all systems are working correctly. But perhaps more important will be any gaps the tests demonstrate in your personal severe-weather preparedness.