6:10 AM outdoor warning sirens in Hennepin County a computer glitch

The National Weather Service in Minnesota confirmed there was no weather emergency when outdoor warning sirens went off in Hennepin County just after 6 a.m. Tuesday. The Hennepin County sheriff's office later confirmed a computer hardware malfunction caused the accidental wake-up call.

Official explanation from Hennepin County sheriff

"Today, at 6:10 am, outdoor warning sirens were inadvertently sounded in Hennepin County.  The outdoor warning siren system is tested daily to ensure functionality. The system experienced a momentary computer hardware malfunction during the daily test.  The system has since been repaired and all systems are operating normally.

National Weather Service statement

"Tuesday 6:15 AM: Several people are reporting sirens going off in Hennepin County, Minnesota. It appears to be related to a malfunction. There are no weather concerns at this time.

False alarm a good reminder

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety says Tuesday's false alarm is a good reminder of what to do when the outdoor warnings sound. Outdoor warning systems are not designed to be heard indoors. When sirens are sounded, people should go inside to seek additional information from news sources, weather apps and weather radios. 

Counties and cities own, operate and maintain all local sirens, and set their own policy on how and when to activate them. Check with your local county emergency manager to find out local siren policies.

6 a.m. siren on Twitter

Of course, the 6 a.m. siren has a Twitter account (@6am_siren).

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