Columbus, Ohio (AP) -- Remember, this is only a test. Tornado sirens will blare at 9:50 a.m. in a statewide drill ordered by Gov. Ted Strickland as part of Severe Weather Awareness Week.

In his proclamation, the Governor says it's essential for Ohioans to know what to do and be prepared for a tornado, or any weather emergency. He says the heavy rains and flooding seen over the past year have shown just how destructive weather can be.

State officials say while tornadoes can occur at any time, April through July are the peak months in Ohio. They also note that twisters usually occur between 2 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Last year, the state recorded a dozen tornadoes.

(Copyright 2008 by the Associated press. All rights reserved.)