JOHNSON COUNTY — Beginning on July 1, the Johnson County emergency personnel implemented a new policy regarding the storm siren system.
According to the Johnson County EMA, the sirens will only activate if the National Weather Service issues a Tornado Warning.
The sirens may also be activated if a trained storm spotter or public safety personnel sees a funnel cloud or tornado.
Johnson County EMA Director Stephanie Sichting said the change was overdue.
“We have residents, especially those living along county lines with Marion and Bartholomew that were very confused,” Sichting said. “Our old policy was confusing.”
Sichting said the policy in place since her start date in 1999 said that sirens would be sounded if the NWS issued a severe thunderstorm warning and a tornado watch was in place at the same time.
The new policy, which was approved by fire chiefs in the area as well mirrors the policies of Marion and Bartholomew counties.
“I wanted sirens to only sound if there is a tornado warning by the National Weather Service or if a trained spotter spots a funnel cloud or tornado,” Sichting said. “Feedback to the change has already been positive from residents.”
-
Governor-Elect Mike Braun announces his transition team, future vision
On Wednesday, Braun answered questions from the press for nearly an hour. It’s one of the longest press conferences he has held since announcing his run for governor.
10th annual coat drive continues in honor of Ralph Dorsey
A local nonprofit lost its founder in January to gun violence. Now, it's determined to keep his legacy alive through an annual coat drive.
Indianapolis preparing for winter weather, potholes
The city will hire 64 CDL-licensed drivers to help plow the roads this winter. City leaders hope the investment will lead to safer roads during the winter months.
Hamilton County considering vote centers for future elections
A handful of polling locations saw wait times of up to three hours on Tuesday. Officials say they've considered vote centers before, but will start to look into them in 2025.
