Stevens Point, Wisconsin tests storm sirens during scheduled upgrade maintenance

Stevens Point Tests Storm Sirens During Scheduled Upgrade Maintenance
Stevens Point, WI Residents of Stevens Point heard storm sirens blaring at unusual times this week but there was no cause for alarm. City officials confirmed that the sirens were activated as part of scheduled upgrade and maintenance testing across the city’s emergency alert system.

The testing began on Tuesday morning and is expected to continue periodically through the end of the week. According to the Stevens Point Emergency Management Department, the tests are part of a broader effort to modernize the city’s severe weather warning infrastructure, ensuring faster, more reliable alerts ahead of major storms and other emergencies.

“Upgrading our storm sirens is a preventative measure, not a response to any current threat,” said Sarah Henke, the city’s Emergency Management Coordinator. “We’re replacing outdated hardware and fine tuning the system to improve coverage and effectiveness. Residents may hear brief siren activations during the daytime hours, but these are only tests.”

The upgrades include new radio receivers, battery backup systems, and enhanced siren tones that are more easily distinguishable in high wind conditions. Technicians are also recalibrating signal range to reach more rural parts of the community. Some siren poles are being retrofitted with solar panels to improve sustainability and reduce long term operational costs.

The city last performed a full siren system review in 2017, but technological advances and regional storm patterns have prompted renewed investment. “Tornado season has become increasingly unpredictable in recent years,” said Mayor Mike Wiza. “This upgrade ensures we’re not relying on legacy systems when seconds matter.”

During the maintenance window, residents are encouraged to follow the City of Stevens Point’s social media pages and official website for real time updates on test schedules and locations. The city has emphasized that all siren tests will be clearly announced in advance to avoid confusion.

The city’s routine monthly siren test, typically held on the first Wednesday of each month at noon, will continue as scheduled. However, the emergency management team noted that additional intermittent activations during the upgrade process should not be mistaken for actual weather emergencies.

Henke also reminded residents to not rely solely on sirens for severe weather alerts, especially when indoors. “Storm sirens are an outdoor warning tool. Everyone should also have a NOAA Weather Radio, and sign up for mobile alerts from trusted sources like the National Weather Service or local news stations.”

Feedback from residents during the testing period will help the city identify any gaps in siren coverage. A short public survey will be released at the end of the maintenance cycle to gather input on siren audibility in different neighborhoods.

The project is funded through a combination of municipal emergency preparedness funds and a state grant aimed at bolstering infrastructure in smaller cities facing increased severe weather risks. If successful, Stevens Point’s updated system could serve as a model for other mid sized Wisconsin communities looking to enhance their emergency alert capabilities.

With storm season approaching its peak, the timing of the upgrade is intentional. “We want to complete all work before August, when the risk of tornadoes and fast moving storms is at its highest,” Henke said. “Our goal is simple keep people safe, informed, and prepared.”

For more information about siren testing or to report a siren that wasn’t heard during testing, residents can contact Stevens Point Emergency Management