Emergency Management Frequently Asked Questions

Does the City of Roanoke have public storm shelters? 

The City of Roanoke does not have public storm shelters. While they may seem like a good idea, they often come with more risks than benefits to residents:

• Opening public buildings as storm shelters gives a false sense of security and offers no more protection than a well-built residential structure.
• Going to a public storm shelter could put you more at risk than staying home. It's unlikely you'll have enough time to gather your family, get in the car, and reach a shelter. Traffic might also be congested if everyone is going to the same place. Plus, being in a car is dangerous during a tornado.

What are the Outdoor Warning Sirens for?

The Outdoor Warning System has 6 sirens located throughout the city. When certain warnings are issued, the sirens are activated to warn people to move inside and seek further information.  Sirens are not meant to be heard inside of your home or business. Outdoor sirens should not be relied upon as the sole alerting method. Residents are encouraged to purchase a weather alert radio or download weather notification applications for indoor warning purposes.

Why are the Outdoor Warning Sirens sounding?

The City of Roanoke only activates the sirens in the following conditions:

• A tornado warning issued by the National Weather Service
• Tornado or funnel cloud has been reported by trained SKYWARN storm spotters
• Sustained winds over 70 mph
• Hail 2" or larger
• Other emergencies as needed

On the first Wednesday of every month, weather permitting, the City of Roanoke will test our Outdoor Warning Sirens at 2 p.m.

What is the difference between a Watch and a Warning?

Both warnings and watches are issued for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and flash floods. These are two important ways you can anticipate a potential emergency. Watches and warnings are broadcast over the radio and TV and issued through emergency notification systems and apps.

• Watch - Conditions are favorable for the severe weather event in or near the watch area. When a watch is announced, stay alert and be ready to take action.
• Warning - A severe weather event is imminent or occurring in the warned area. Activate your personal emergency plan, take action based on the emergency at hand, and listen to local radio or TV for updates and information on what further actions to take.

What should I do when I hear the Outdoor Warning Sirens?

When you hear the Outdoor Warning Sirens, you should immediately go inside and turn on an information source; do not call 9-1-1 unless you need an emergency response.

If advised to take cover, go to an interior windowless room or hallway on the lowest floor of the building. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Stay away from windows and doors. Get under something sturdy such as a table and if possible, cover yourself with a blanket or sleeping bag. It is strongly recommended that residents designate a shelter area for their home in advance and practice going to that area as a family. 

If you are in a public building or at work during a severe storm, seek shelter on the lowest level of the building. You can also use the fire escapes or windowless restrooms as shelter areas. The expiration time of the warning will be included in the National Weather Service warning message. Remember to designate your shelter area in advance; there will be less confusion during severe weather if the location is pre-determined. Offices should hold tornado drills often.

Does Emergency Management conduct educational programs? 

Yes!  Emergency Management can be scheduled to conduct educational programs on preparedness, response, and recovery, as well as local hazards.  Presentations can be catered to churches, businesses, and children's programs. Contact Amanda Meneses at 817-491-8125,  to schedule or for further details. 

What are the best resources for preparedness and emergency management?

• Texas Department of Emergency Management
• FEMA
• KnoWhat2Do
• National Weather Service
• Ready.gov
• American Red Cross