Severe Thunderstorm Warnings - What They Mean, And How To Stay Safe During These Dangerous Conditions
Severe thunderstorms can be dangerous and destructive, causing damage to property and posing a threat to human life. The National Weather Service (NWS) issues Severe Thunderstorm Warnings to alert people of the potential for severe weather conditions. In this article, we will take a closer look at Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, what they mean, and how to stay safe during these dangerous conditions.
What are Severe Thunderstorm Warnings?
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) to alert people of the potential for severe weather conditions. These warnings are issued when a thunderstorm is expected to produce one or more of the following conditions:
- Damaging winds: Thunderstorms can produce strong winds that can cause damage to trees, power lines, and buildings.
- Large hail: Thunderstorms can produce large hail, which can cause damage to property and pose a threat to human life.
- Flash flooding: Thunderstorms can produce heavy rainfall that can cause flash flooding, which can be dangerous and destructive.
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are typically issued for a period of one hour, and they are usually accompanied by a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, which is issued a few hours in advance of the Severe Thunderstorm Warning.
When a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued, it means that severe weather conditions are imminent or occurring in the warned area. During a Severe Thunderstorm Warning, it is important to take extra precautions to stay safe and protect yourself and your property.
What do Severe Thunderstorm Warnings mean?
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued when a thunderstorm is expected to produce one or more of the following conditions:
- Damaging winds: Thunderstorms can produce strong winds that can cause damage to trees, power lines, and buildings. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued when winds are expected to exceed 58 mph.
- Large hail: Thunderstorms can produce large hail, which can cause damage to property and pose a threat to human life. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued when hail is expected to be one inch in diameter or larger.
- Flash flooding: Thunderstorms can produce heavy rainfall that can cause flash flooding, which can be dangerous and destructive. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued when flash flooding is expected to occur.
When these conditions are present, it is important to take extra precautions to stay safe and protect yourself and your property.
How to stay safe during Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
During Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, it is important to take extra precautions to stay safe and protect yourself and your property. Here are some tips to stay safe during Severe Thunderstorm Warnings:
1. Stay indoors: During Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, it is important to stay indoors and avoid going outside. If you are outside, seek shelter immediately.
2. Stay away from windows: If you are indoors during a Severe Thunderstorm Warning, stay away from windows and doors. Flying debris can break windows and cause injury.
3. Unplug electronics: Unplug electronics and appliances to protect them from power surges that can occur during thunderstorms.
4. Avoid using water: Avoid using water during thunderstorms, as lightning can travel through plumbing and cause injury.
5. Stay informed: Stay informed about the latest weather conditions and follow the National Weather Service for updates on Severe Thunderstorm Warnings.
Conclusion
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued by the National Weather Service to alert people of the potential for severe weather conditions. These warnings are issued when a thunderstorm is expected to produce damaging winds, large hail, or flash flooding. During Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, it is important to take extra precautions to stay safe and protect yourself and your property. By staying informed and taking extra precautions, we can help prevent injuries and damage during severe thunderstorms.
