Benton Unveils Audio Weather Warning System

BENTON, La. (AP) — The town of Benton has a new method for warning their residents when dangerous weather is headed their way.

Benton erected its first Federal Signal Siren in the center of town, a device mounted on a large, durable pole.

The Times reports the system will be utilized only when the town is under an immediate or approaching threat from a tornado, and when activated it will emit a loud siren which can be heard in an approximate radius of one mile.

Mayor Wayne Cathcart says residents will also hear the siren on the first Saturday of each month, at 11 a.m. for a monthly test, unless the weather is less than ideal on the test day.