TEMA addresses Tulsa's weather emergency preparedness with outdoor siren system

On May 2, 2025, the Tulsa Women's Commission convened to discuss critical community safety measures, particularly focusing on weather preparedness and emergency response. The meeting featured insights from Joe Kralacek, the executive director of the Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), who emphasized the importance of understanding the city's outdoor warning sirens and their respective signals for various emergencies.

Kralacek explained that Tulsa's sirens emit three distinct tones: a steady tone for tornado warnings, a second sound for nuclear attack alerts, and a third for potential flooding. He urged residents to familiarize themselves with these alerts, as they are vital for ensuring personal safety during severe weather events. The steady tone, for instance, not only signals tornado threats but can also indicate hazardous material releases, prompting immediate sheltering and further information gathering through local media.

In addition to the siren system, Kralacek highlighted a valuable resource for the deaf and hard of hearing community—Okay WARN. This service, provided by the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, sends weather emergency notifications via pager, email, or cell phone, ensuring that all community members receive timely alerts.

Steve Piltz, the meteorologist in charge of the National Weather Service in Tulsa, also contributed to the discussion, noting that while thunderstorms can occur year-round, spring is particularly prone to severe weather. He explained the rapid formation of tornadoes and the importance of being prepared during severe thunderstorm watches. Piltz reassured attendees that the National Weather Service issues warnings based on real-time data to help residents take necessary precautions before severe weather strikes.

The meeting underscored the critical need for community awareness and preparedness in the face of natural disasters. As Tulsa continues to experience severe weather patterns, the discussions highlighted the city's commitment to ensuring that all residents, regardless of their hearing abilities, have access to vital safety information. The commission's efforts reflect a proactive approach to safeguarding the community and fostering resilience against potential emergencies.