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Outdoor Sirens
Allen operates 26 outdoor warning sirens that sound during severe weather events, including large hail, heavy winds and tornado warnings. Though the sirens are placed strategically throughout the city, they are designed to warn people who are outdoors. People who are inside may not hear them, as air conditioning, thunder, wind, rain and other conditions can drown out the sound.
Sirens are activated for:
Sirens are activated for:
- Hail greater than 1 inch in size
- Winds greater than 70 mph
- Tornado warnings from the National Weather Service naming Allen in the path
About Allen's Outdoor Warning Sirens
Siren testing
The City of Allen tests outdoor warning sirens at noon on the first Wednesday of every month. Tests will not be performed during severe weather events. If Allen is experiencing severe weather on a regularly-scheduled date for siren testing, please assume the siren is weather-related, seek shelter immediately, and check the City’s website for additional information.
If you hear a siren, you should take shelter immediately. Remember that thunderstorms can produce a tornado with little or no warning. Read more about where to go in a severe thunderstorm.
Sirens are activated when a tornado or other threat to the area exists. Allen Emergency Management determines potential threats based on the evaluation of all available information. This may include, but is not limited to:
- National Weather Service watch and/or warning text
- Weather radar
- Reports from trained weather-spotters or public safety officers.
Weather Alert Signal
The sirens will sound a wail tone for three (3) minutes to indicate the following:- Hail 1 inch or greater in size
- Severe Thunderstorm Warning from the National Weather Service with winds forecast more than 70 mph
- Tornado Warning from the National Weather Service naming Allen in the path
Attention Signal
The sirens will sound pulsed-steady tones followed by an announcement providing information regarding the type of alert or warning.
General Alert Signal
The sirens will sound a steady tone for three (3) minutes. This indicates a hazardous materials incident or other emergency that could affect public health, safety or property.