What’s that sound?

WAYLAND — Wayland residents will need to adjust to a new normal as new sirens were installed this month changing the testing schedule.

Instead of the sirens testing at noon, residents can now anticipate hearing the new sirens sound off at 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday to ensure they’re functional.

According to the National Weather Service, these sirens are designed for people outdoors and are not intended to be heard inside a home, vehicle, or business. They are not designed to wake people and are activated based on local policy and criteria.

Sirens activate when the area is experiencing or anticipates experiencing life-threatening weather conditions such as tornadoes, severe thunderstorms with over 70 miles per hour wind and/or golf-ball-sized hail or larger.

If individuals hear sirens while outside, they should head indoors immediately and seek further information.

Siren testing will not take place if there is a possibility for severe weather.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com