The month of March signals the start of severe weather season for South Carolina and runs through August. Each year, on average, there are 60 days thunderstorms threaten the state.

This week, March 3 through March 9, is South Carolina's Severe Weather Awareness Week. Each day, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration along with the Federal Emergency Management System, will highlight ways to stay ahead of the storm.

Here are the topics:

Monday: Know your risk

Tuesday: Develop an emergency plan

Wednesday: Build a kit

Thursday: Hear the warning with NOAA Weather Radio

Friday: Be an example

Saturday: Overview

In addition, on Tuesday at 9 a.m., the National Weather Service along with local broadcasters will conduct a statewide tornado drill. The test alert will come through EAS (emergency alert system) and NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) weather radios.

The goal is to raise awareness about severe weather hazards and how to prepare.

The Pee Dee and the Grand Strand can be especially prepared by signing up for several services that keep you informed of possible severe weather.

To receive text alerts from NewsChannel 15 click here.

To receive a phone call when severe weather threatens, click here.

Click here to get the CarolinaLive Mobile App for your smartphone.

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