Outdoor Warning Notification System 

The City of Hewitt is committed to the safety of its residents and visitors. To help protect the community during severe weather or emergency events, we operate a robust Outdoor Warning System featuring:
  • Five outdoor sirens placed strategically across the city.
  • Lightning detection systems at Hewitt Park and Warren Park.

When Are Sirens Activated?

The sirens are activated to alert the public of immediate severe weather threats, such as tornadoes or other significant emergencies that directly affect the City of Hewitt.

⚠️ Note: Sirens may not activate for county-wide weather warnings unless the threat includes the Hewitt city limits.


When Are The Lightning Detectors Activated?

Lightning detection systems at Hewitt Park and Warren Park automatically activate when lightning is detected within a 10-mile radius. This helps protect parkgoers during outdoor events or recreation.


Testing Information

Routine test are conducted on the first Friday of each month at 10 a.m. to ensure the system is functioning properly.

Follow the City of Hewitt and City of Hewitt Fire Department Facebook pages for Outdoor Warning System tests and cancellations.

⚠️Note: Tests may be canceled if inclement weather is present or expected to prevent public confusion.

A map showing the locations of the outdoor warning sirens and lightning detection systems.

What To Do When You Hear An Outdoor Warning Siren

If you hear an Outdoor Warning Siren, it means there is a potential or immediate threat. Take the following steps immediately:
  • Seek shelter right away.
  • Tune into your local TV or radio stations for updates and instructions.
  • Monitor mobile weather applications for up-to-date information.

What To Do If A Tornado Is Approaching

The safest place during a tornado is underground or the lowest level possible. Follow these steps:
  • Seek shelter.
  • Head to a basement, storm shelter, or lowest level of your home or business.
  • Stay away from doors and windows.
  • Move to a small interior room, like a bathroom, closet, or hallway.
  • Use blankets or cushions to protect yourself from flying debris.
  • Stay sheltered until officials confirm the treat has passed.

Outdoor Weather Safety

Storms can develop quickly, especially during Texas weather seasons. If you're caught outdoors at a park when a storm approaches, follow these life-saving safety tips:
  • Seek shelter immediately—a nearby building or a vehicle is safest.
  • Stay away from open fields, hilltops, water, metal fences, and playground equipment.
  • Avoid trees and crouch low with feet together if no shelter is available.
  • Stay alert for rising water.  Never drive or walk through flooded areas.

Evacuation Notification

Outdoor warning sirens may be activated in the event of a mandatory or recommended evacuation. This notification would be though further instructions on the City social media, web page or Local news outlets.

Shelter-In-Place Notification

If the outdoor warning sirens sound and you are instructed to shelter in place (through the City social media, web page or Local news outlet), it means there is a serious emergency such as a hazardous material release, chemical spill, or radiological threat—where it’s safest to stay indoors rather than evacuate. 

Follow these essential tips:
  • Immediately go indoors.
  • Follow official instructions from emergency personnel, alerts from local tv or radio, McLennan County Emergency Notification System or the City of Hewitt Facebook page.
  • Close and lock all windows and exterior doors.
  • Turn off fans and HVAC systems.
  • Block drafts using towels, blankets, or duct tape around doors and windows.