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Book 7, Question 44 · Video

Why Do Weather Sirens Howl?

Video · 2:00 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 7

A weather siren is a giant outdoor loudspeaker. Its job is to warn people outside when dangerous weather is near, so they can get to shelter quickly. The howl means: take action no

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hey, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do weather sirens howl?

The Big Idea

A weather siren is a giant outdoor loudspeaker. Its job is to warn people outside when dangerous weather is near, so they can get to shelter quickly. The howl means: take action now, then find out the details.

Danger Is Detected

Step one: danger is detected. Weather experts watch radar and reports, and spot dangerous weather like a tornado. They send out an official warning.

The Siren Sounds

Step two: the siren sounds. Officials turn on the sirens, which make a loud, rising and falling tone that can travel for blocks. They are made to be heard outdoors.

People Shelter

Step three: people go inside. When you hear the siren, go indoors right away with a grown-up. Then check your phone, radio, or television for details.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look at the warning chain! First, the alert tells officials about the danger. Next, the siren warns everyone outdoors. And then, a radio or phone tells you what to do.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Sirens are meant for people who are outdoors, so the first move is to go inside. Inside a house, you may not hear a siren, so a grown-up can use a weather radio or phone alerts too. Different towns can use sirens for different warnings, so a grown-up should learn what yours means. Never wait for a siren to stop. Go inside, and stay there until officials say it is safe.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Ask a grown-up what your town's siren means. Decide together where your family would shelter. Share the plan with everyone at home. Then ask: why are sirens so loud?

Outro

Sirens are the sky's loudspeaker. Act, then learn the details inside. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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