CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Outdoor warning sirens will be tested at the Catawba and McGuire nuclear stations in the Charlotte area, Duke Energy announced.
Wednesday's test is regularly scheduled maintenance performed by Duke. The quarterly tests are done to ensure all of the equipment works properly. Duke last tested its sirens in October.
Duke said the tests will be conducted between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Wednesday. In total, 89 sirens within 10 miles of the Catawba station in York and 67 sirens within 10 miles of the McGuire station in Huntersville will sound for 5-30 seconds. Duke said some sirens may be tested multiple times.
Residents in Catawba, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg and York counties may hear the sirens during testing. Because this is only a test, broadcasting stations in the Charlotte area will not interrupt programming, which is required in the event of an emergency.
The organization outlines ways you can determine whether not a siren you hear is a test or an emergency:
First, check to see if it’s a scheduled siren test date. Sirens are tested weekly using a “silent test” that cannot be heard by the public. Once a quarter, however, Duke Energy will conduct a full volume test of the system, usually on the second Wednesday of the month.
Sometimes sirens around a plant require maintenance and are tested afterward to ensure they are working properly. If you hear a siren and it’s not a scheduled test day, check social media for updates. Duke Energy will share updates through our nuclear Twitter and Facebook accounts. Duke Energy will also share this information with local media and our emergency management partners, so you may see updates on their websites and social media accounts, too.
In the event of an actual emergency, Duke Energy will provide regular updates through local and social media before sirens are activated. However, if you hear sirens repeatedly sounding and it does not appear to be a test, tune into a local radio or TV station. Stations will also carry emergency alert information messages from local officials to instruct you on what to do. You can find a list of primary emergency alert stations online and in your emergency planning booklet.
You can stream WCNC Charlotte on Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV, just download the free WCNC+ app.
WCNC Charlotte is committed to reporting on the many issues facing the communities we serve. We tell the stories of people working to solve persistent social problems. We examine how problems can be solved or addressed to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference. WCNC Charlotte is seeking solutions for you. Send your tips or questions to newstips@wcnc.com.