Yankton Storm Siren System

The Yankton Storm Siren System is ready for action, but it's not the only warning needed!

When summer storms approach, residents of the city of Yankton might hear the loud wail of the outdoor storm siren system. But many people have the wrong impression regarding what that system is designed to do. Warning siren activation serves as a signal for citizens to go immediately inside and tune to a radio, television station or weather radio for updates on what is occurring.

Yankton has 6 storm sirens ready to sound when needed. These sirens are located at:

• 11th and Dakota (St. Johns Lutheran Church)
• Memory Lane (Crockett Park)
• 21st and Mulberry (Middle School)
• 5th and Walnut (City Hall)
• Fox Run Golf Course.
• 29th Street between Ruth and Lakeview Dr. (Ridgeway Park)

While the City of Yankton owns and maintains the siren system, Yankton County Emergency Management is responsible for activating the siren system should it be needed in case of a storm. While storm sirens are an important tool in public warning, they are not a substitute for personal preparedness. Severe weather safety means having a family action plan and the supplies necessary to stay safe in the event of severe weather. Being prepared ahead of time is the only effective way to ensure your safety in the event of severe weather.

The City of Yankton has several different types of sirens, the sound of the storm warning tone, a long loud steady burst, is the same for each siren. This should not be confused with the slow wavering tone used to alert the Yankton Volunteer Fire Department of an emergency call.

Sample Tones to demonstrate the differences in each (check speaker volume before clicking on the following links)

• Storm Warning Tone
  Steady Tone   
• Fire Emergency Tone
  Fast Wail        

This is the time of year to expect weather emergencies and the tornado season is upon us. Citizens should seek immediate shelter indoors, and monitor your local radio or television stations, for further information and instruction. Citizens are also reminded that sirens are tested every Wednesday at noon and should not be alarmed when heard for this brief test.

Outdoor storm siren warning systems have never been designed to be heard inside buildings or homes. Although you may be able to hear these sirens in homes or businesses in the right weather conditions, the sirens probably won’t be heard in windy or bad weather conditions. Additionally, better sealed and insulated homes are designed to keep homes sealed from not only outside temperatures but also outdoor sounds.

Indoor weather and emergency warnings can come from several different sources. NOAA weather radios; sold in many hardware, electronics and discount stores; as well as television and radio are good sources of local weather and emergency warnings. Also, local websites and the National Weather Service internet webpage are excellent sources of information.

What to do when Severe Weather Sirens Sound

• Severe Weather—Seek Shelter Immediately!

In Homes or Small Buildings

• Go to the basement (if available) or to an interior room on the lowest floor, such as a closet or bathroom.
• Wrap yourself in overcoats or blankets to protect yourself from flying debris.

In Large Buildings or Schools

• Go to interior rooms and halls on the lowest floor.
• Stay away from glass enclosed places or areas with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums and warehouses.
• Crouch down and cover your head.

In Cars or Mobile Homes

• ABANDON THEM IMMEDIATELY! Most deaths occur in cars and mobile homes. If you are in either of those locations, leave them and go to a substantial structure or designated tornado shelter.

If no Suitable Structure is Nearby

• Lie flat in the nearest ditch or depression and use your hands to cover your head.

• Do not follow the fire trucks or other emergency vehicles. The emergency scene and routes to it will be used for emergency vehicles and personnel.
• Yield to emergency vehicles and firefighters displaying their flashing blue light.

General Lighting Safety Rules

When Inside

• Avoid using the telephone (except for emergencies) or other electrical appliances. Do not take a bath or shower.

If Caught Outdoors

• Go to a safe shelter immediately! Find safety inside a sturdy building. A hard top automobile with the windows up can also offer fair protection. If you are boating or swimming, get out of the water immediately and move to a safe shelter away from the water!
• If you are in a wooded area, seek shelter under a thick growth of relatively small trees.
• If you feel your hair standing on end, squat with your head between your knees. Do not lie flat!
• Avoid: isolated trees or other tall objects, bodies of water, sheds, fences, convertible automobiles, tractors, and motorcycles.

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