LAKE POINSETT'S STORM SIRENS
Lake Poinsett has a Severe Weather Outdoor Warning System. This system of sirens gets activated anytime severe weather threatens Lake Poinsett or the immediate area. Severe weather can include damaging straight-line winds, lightning, large hail, and tornadoes.
FOUR STORM SIRENS
Lake Poinsett has four storm sirens stationed on GF&P owned land: Sorenson’s Public Access, Saraanen’s Access, Prestrude’s Access, and the Lake Poinsett Recreation Area.
ACTIVIATED SIRENS
The outdoor warning system is activated when the National Weather Service issues a Severe Thunderstorm Warning or a Tornado Warning. The system is also activated when Hamlin County SKYWARN Weather Spotters report severe weather
in the area.
A STEADY BLAST
The outdoor warning system will sound for three minutes with a steady blast and may be reactivated if conditions require additional warning. SEEK SHELTER IMMEDIATELY! Storm sirens are tested the 1st and 3rd Tuesday at noon, weather permitting from April to September.
STORM SHELTERS
When the siren is activated, cover should be taken inside a sturdy building. Get out of mobile homes and find a substantial shelter. Public Shelters in the area include the Lake Region Golf Course and the Methodist Church Camp.
DEAD ZONE
A number of lake homes are located in a dead zone, where the siren cannot be heard. To receive severe weather alerts purchase an All-Weather-Radio NOAA (Midland brand) with battery backup or install weather reporting apps on your smartphone.
A COOPERATIVE PROJECT
This outdoor warning system was a cooperative project funded between the Lake Poinsett Association, SD GF&P, and Hamlin County, along with a Homeland Security Grant. Each siren was approximately $20,000.
SIREN MAINTANCE
Lake Poinsett Association budgets yearly to maintain the sirens’ 16 batteries and mechanical parts.
For more information on severe weather safety,
contact the Hamlin County Emergency Management Office at 605-783-7831.