Okemah updates tornado siren policy; outlines when warnings will sound

Justin Scrimshire
Okemah News Leader

The City of Okemah has updated its tornado warning siren activation and storm shelter policy, providing residents with clearer guidelines on when sirens will sound and how public storm shelters will operate during severe weather.
City Manager Kristy Lesley said the policy is designed to ensure residents understand what the tornado siren means, when it will be activated and how public shelters will function during dangerous storms.
The updated policy comes during an already active start to tornado season in Oklahoma. March has seen significant activity statewide, including four reported deaths. Historically, Oklahoma averages about four tornadoes in the month of March, but the state has already recorded 16 tornadoes this month. The record for March tornadoes is 17, set in 1991. In comparison, 15 tornadoes were reported in March of 2025.
Because of the early-season activity, officials are encouraging residents to remain weather aware throughout tornado season.
When sirens will sound
Under the city’s policy, tornado warning sirens will be activated when a Tornado Warning issued by the National Weather Service includes Okemah, Okfuskee County or an adjoining county that is in the direct path of the storm.
Sirens may also be activated if a tornado or funnel cloud is spotted by law enforcement, emergency management personnel or trained storm spotters, or when radar or credible reports indicate an immediate tornado threat approaching the city.
When sirens will not sound
Lesley clarified that sirens will not be activated for less severe weather conditions. These include tornado watches, severe thunderstorm watches, severe thunderstorm warnings without a tornado threat and storms involving heavy rain or lightning.
Lesley also noted that outdoor warning sirens are intended to alert people who are outdoors and should not be relied upon as the sole method for receiving weather alerts.
What the siren means
According to the policy, the tornado warning signal will consist of a continuous siren blast lasting approximately three to five minutes. If the threat continues, the siren may be activated again periodically.
Lesley also emphasized the city will not use the sirens to signal an “all clear.” Residents should instead monitor weather alerts, local media, weather radios and official city communications for updates.
Monthly testing
The city will test its tornado sirens monthly on the first Monday of each month at 10 a.m., weather permitting.
Storm shelter operations
Public storm shelters will be opened when a Tornado Warning is issued for Okfuskee County that includes the City of Okemah, when a tornado is sighted near the city, or when emergency officials determine that life-threatening weather is imminent.
Shelters will operate on a first-come, first-served basis and occupants must follow instructions from emergency personnel.
The city’s rules prohibit weapons, alcohol, illegal drugs and smoking or vaping inside shelters. Occupants are expected to remain respectful of others while using the facilities.
Residents are encouraged to bring identification, necessary medications, a flashlight, a weather radio or phone, and a small blanket or cushion.
Children must remain with a parent or guardian at all times.
Shelters will remain open until the tornado warning has expired and officials determine the threat has passed. The city also notes that shelter space is limited and entry may be restricted once capacity is reached.
Storm shelters in Okemah are only available when school is not in session.
Shelter locations include:
• Okemah High School, 704 W. Date
• Oakes Elementary School, 215 N. 16th St.
Lesley said the policy is intended to improve public safety by clearly communicating how and when the city will respond during severe weather.
With tornado activity already well above normal this spring, residents are encouraged to remain alert to weather conditions and have a plan in place should severe storms threaten the area.