<p>COLUMBIA — The City of Columbia has completed installation and initial testing of a new citywide public safety siren system, city officials announced May 12, marking what they called a significant upgrade to how residents will be warned during severe weather and other widespread emergencies. The sirens were successfully tested on Monday, May 11, 2026.</p><p>The project was funded through a $420,000 Community Development Block Grant Imminent Threat Program and completed in partnership with the South Central Tennessee Development District. The system includes 12 strategically placed sirens throughout Columbia. Three electric sirens feature both audible tones and voice capabilities, while nine mechanical sirens are engineered to deliver strong, far-reaching warning signals across the city.</p><p>Mayor Chaz Molder, speaking through the city's announcement, said the investment reflects a core municipal priority. He described protecting the community as one of the city's highest ongoing commitments and said the new system strengthens Columbia's ability to quickly alert residents when it matters most. City Manager Tony Massey echoed that sentiment, noting that the modern, reliable system enhances the city's ability to deliver timely warnings.</p><p>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 the city where a threat has been identified. Residents should not expect to hear the sirens for lesser weather watches or advisories.</p><p>For a community that sits squarely in Middle Tennessee's severe weather corridor, this is the kind of practical, life-safety investment that deserves recognition. Federal grant dollars were put to good use here, and city leadership deserves credit for pursuing them.</p>