<p>COLUMBIA — The City of Columbia has completed installation and testing of a new citywide public safety siren system, marking one of the most significant upgrades to the city's emergency preparedness infrastructure in recent memory. The sirens were successfully tested on Monday, May 11, 2026, according to a city announcement posted May 12.</p><p>The project was funded through a $420,000 Community Development Block Grant through the Imminent Threat Program and completed in partnership with the South Central Tennessee Development District. The system includes 12 sirens placed at strategic locations throughout Columbia. Three of those are electric sirens capable of both audible tones and voice messaging, while nine are mechanical sirens engineered for strong, far-reaching warning signals.</p><p>Mayor Chaz Molder said the project reflects the city's ongoing commitment to its residents. Molder noted that investing in public safety remains among the city's highest priorities and that the new system strengthens Columbia's ability to quickly alert residents when it matters most. City Manager Tony Massey echoed that sentiment, saying the modern, reliable alert system enhances the city's capacity to deliver timely warnings.</p><p>Residents should know the sirens are activated only when the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning — meaning a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar — and only for the specific areas of Columbia where the threat is identified. This targeted approach is designed to reduce unnecessary alarm while ensuring no neighborhood is left without warning when a real threat approaches.</p><p>With spring storms a fact of life here along the Duck River corridor, this investment is well-timed and worth celebrating. Columbia residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the siren locations in their neighborhoods and to have a plan ready when they hear that sound.</p>