Today is Fall Severe Weather Preparedness Day in Georgia, and schools, businesses and families across the state are being encouraged to review their emergency plans and participate in a statewide tornado drill.

The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, working with the National Weather Service, has scheduled the exercise for approximately 9:30 this morning.

All six National Weather Service forecast offices serving Georgia will issue a special weather radio message simultaneously to initiate the drill. Schools, businesses and other organizations are encouraged to use the opportunity to practice their tornado safety procedures.

GEMA Director Josh Lamb says that while many people associate severe weather with the spring months, the threat of dangerous storms during the fall should not be overlooked.

According to the National Weather Service, Georgia experiences a secondary period of increased severe weather activity during November and early December, including the possibility of tornadoes.

The observance comes as Northwest Georgia is expecting widespread rain and possible thunderstorms today, although forecasters are not anticipating widespread severe weather with the approaching system.

Emergency management officials recommend that families identify a safe place in their homes, review emergency communication plans and make sure they have several ways to receive weather warnings.

Residents are also encouraged to maintain an emergency supply kit and understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning.

Additional preparedness information is available through the Ready Georgia program at gema.georgia.gov.