Emergency Sirens

The outdoor warning siren system consists of 10 large outdoor warning sirens located throughout the City of North Richland Hills. These sirens are activated and emit a steady tone when there is an immediate danger from a tornado, national security threat or environmental hazard.

Activation Criteria

1. The National Weather Service issues a Tornado Warning or Severe Thunderstorm Warning with the phrase "Destructive winds in excess of 70 mph (or higher) are likely with this storm" for your immediate area.
2. Trained spotters have reported a tornado in the jurisdiction, or in a neighboring jurisdiction that has the potential to affect North Richland Hills.
3. Reported hail of 1.25' in diameter or greater. (1 inch may be more appropriate for areas or events where large numbers of people are outdoors)
4. Other emergency as directed by the community's elected officials.

How to React

The sirens are designed to warn people who are outside to go inside. Due to the efficiency of modern homes you may not hear the sirens in your home. The City of North Richland Hills recommends purchasing a NOAA all hazards alert radio or downloading a weather alert application on your phone. An all hazards alert radio can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 at many local drugstores or electronics retailers. These alert radios automatically turn on to notify you of hazards in your area. Citizens are encouraged to turn their television or radio to a locally broadcast channel or station to determine what hazardous situation exist when they receive a warning from any of these methods.

Testing

The outdoor warning system is tested at 1:00 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. The sirens will not be tested if inclement weather is forecasted or is in the immediate area.