State prepares for severe weather

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - The return of warm weather means state officials are making their annual plea for Indiana residents to ready themselves for the possibility of severe weather.

Gov. Mitch Daniels has proclaimed March 14 through 20 as Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Indiana. The goal is to remind Hoosiers of the dangers of severe thunderstorms and fast-developing tornadoes, and how they can protect themselves and their families.

This week's events will include a statewide test of the state's tornado sirens and other communications systems on Wednesday morning and Wednesday evening.

That test will be conducted by the National Weather Service in conjunction with Indiana State Police, the state Department of Homeland Security, the Indiana Broadcasters Association and other groups.