04/27/2026
Last night’s weather event was a strong reminder of why the City of Arlington Outdoor Warning Sirens remain an important part of keeping our community informed during severe weather.
The storm that moved through our area was identified as a supercell, the same storm system responsible for catastrophic damage just northwest of Arlington in Parker and Wise counties. Throughout the evening and overnight hours, the Arlington Fire Department Office of Emergency Management worked proactively to monitor conditions and alert residents as the storm approached, and again when hail entered our city limits.
We also appreciate the continued partnership and real-time updates provided by National Weather Service Fort Worth, whose information helps guide critical decision-making during severe weather events.
It is important to understand that the few times each year Arlingtons Outdoor Warning Sirens are activated, it does not automatically mean a tornado is on the ground. Sirens may also sound when conditions are favorable for severe weather capable of producing tornadoes, damaging winds, or large hail. They are designed to alert people who are outdoors to seek shelter and get additional weather information immediately. This storm had already produced all of the above in counties just north and west of Arlington.
The following criteria are considered when determining if Arlington’s Outdoor Warning Sirens should be activated:
• Tornado Warning issued by the National Weather Service
• Trained storm spotter report of a tornado
• Hail 1.5 inches or larger
• Winds of 70 mph or higher
• Other outdoor emergencies
We take alerts seriously, and you should too. Preparedness, communication, and early warning systems matter, especially when seconds count.
