The National Weather Service reports 16 Missourians died because of tornadoes in 2025, making it the deadliest year for tornadoes in the state since at least 158 people were killed in the Joplin EF-5 tornado in 2011. NWS also reports three flooding deaths last year and one death because of a severe thunderstorm. Missouri Severe Weather Preparedness Week, March 2-6, 2026, and the Statewide Tornado Drill on March 4, were created to call attention to the dangers of severe storms and to help Missourians prepare. Missouri’s annual statewide tornado drill will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4, as part of the week’s preparedness activities. Some Missouri communities may choose to conduct the drill on a different day because of conflicting local events. At 11 a.m. on the day of the tornado drill, NOAA Weather Radios set to receive the Routine Weekly Tests (RWTs) will alert listeners that the tornado drill has begun. Outdoor warning sirens will also sound across participating Missouri communities. At that time, participants should practice taking cover in a designated shelter area or an interior room on the lowest level of a secure structure.