City of Irving Irving, TX

Outdoor Warning System

The Outdoor Warning System for the City of Irving is comprised of 24 sirens located throughout the city. The sirens are activated from the alarm office of the Irving Fire Department and are sounded to warn of severe weather. View outdoor siren locations.

The Outdoor Warning system is designed to warn residents who are outside only.  With today’s air-conditioned homes and vehicles they cannot be heard inside. Residents are encouraged to purchase a weather alert radio for indoor warning purposes. For more information on weather alert radios click here.

The Outdoor Warning System (OWS) may be activated to notify residents when:

  • The National Weather Service issues a Tornado Warning or Severe Thunderstorm Warning with the phrase "Destructive winds in excess of 70 mph (or higher) are likely with this storm" for Irving.
  • Trained storm spotters have reported a tornado in the jurisdiction, or in a neighboring jurisdiction that has the potential to affect Irving.
  • Reported hail of 1.25” in diameter or greater.

Once activated, the sirens sound a steady tone and will rotate 360 degrees for at least three minutes.  Depending upon the weather conditions the System may be continually activated until the danger has passed. An all-clear message is not sounded.

Once you are indoors, proceed to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of the building. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.  Stay away from windows and doors. Get under something sturdy such as a table and if possible, cover yourself with a blanket or sleeping bag.  It is strongly recommended that residents designate a shelter area for their home in advance and practice going to that area as a family.

If you are in an office building during a severe storm, seek shelter on the lowest level of the building. You can also use the fire escapes or restrooms as shelter areas. Remember to designate your shelter area in advance; there will be less confusion during severe weather if the location is pre-determined.  Offices should hold tornado drills.

The Outdoor Warning System is tested on the first Wednesday of every month at 1 p.m., weather permitting. When sounded in an emergency situation, this indicates that a tornado, large hail, high winds or other emergency are imminent for the City of Irving.

Regional Outdoor Warning System Guidelines  View Regional Outdoor Warning System Guidelines | The City of Irving adopted these guidelines in February 2009 to be used as standards for the activation of the outdoor warning system.