City EMA Explains Why Storm Sirens Weren't Sounded Wednesday Night

Many citizens have expressed concerns regarding the City of Effingham outdoor storm sirens not sounding Wednesday evening while Effingham County was under a tornado warning.

A statement released by City EMA states "The City of Effingham has a policy to only sound the outdoor sirens if there is imminent danger to the city. This is determined by an actual spotting of a funnel cloud or tornado or if the National Weather Service notifies us that we are in direct line of one. This policy is set to hopefully prevent the residents from becoming immune to the sirens and to keep them safe in the event of a real tornado. On Wednesday evening, the City was not at any time in imminent danger of a tornado in or immediately around the corporate City limits. City officials were carefully monitoring the weather during the evening events."

The statement also reads: "It is recommended that every citizen have a NOAA weather radio in their home. These radios will alert you of the situation all hours of the day. The outdoor sirens are designed to only be heard while conducting outside activities, so you can seek shelter when we are in imminent danger."

The statement concludes: "Our citizens' safety is of our utmost concern; if there are any other questions or concerns, please feel free to give Kim Tegeler, City EMA Director a call at 217-342-5368."