Olathe is protected by an outdoor warning system with 43 sirens; 16 are solar:

• The system is not designed to warn people indoors. 
• A NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is the fastest and most reliable way to receive severe weather, watches, warnings, advisories and information about other community hazards.

The system is tested by Johnson County Emergency Management on the first Wednesday of the month at 11 a.m. year-round. 

• If the monthly test is cancelled, it is usually postponed one week to the second Wednesday of the month at 11 a.m.
• The test date for March is sometimes changed to coincide with the statewide tornado drill during Severe Weather Awareness Week. 
  • On test day, Olathe volunteers monitor the system by listening and reporting their findings to the Fire Department.
• Sirens may be tested outside normal testing dates and times for preventative maintenance to ensure the equipment is operational.
• The City will occasionally activate sirens at 11:15 a.m. to test alerting equipment.

The system performs a daily self-check to verify operability.

During a tornado warning, sirens will sound in three-minute durations every ten minutes until the tornado warning expires. 

• There is no “all-clear” signal.
• Stay calm and take cover in your pre-determined safety spot.
• Don't tie up phone lines by calling the National Weather Service, local emergency services, public officials or the news media.
• Turn to local media for updates or instructions from public officials.
• Call the Olathe Fire Department Office of Emergency Management at 913-971-7900 with questions or to report a possible siren malfunction.

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