Severe Thunderstorm Warning

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is an urgent alert issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when severe thunderstorms are occurring or imminent in a specific area. It signifies a serious threat to life and property, requiring immediate action to seek shelter.

Unlike a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, which indicates conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms, a warning means a storm is already happening or is about to happen. These storms pose a significant risk due to their potential to produce:

• Large Hail: Hailstones the size of quarters (1 inch in diameter) or larger can cause significant damage to vehicles, homes, and crops. Larger hailstones can even cause injury.
• Damaging Winds: Winds of 58 mph (93 km/h) or greater can uproot trees, down power lines, and cause structural damage to buildings. These winds are often strong enough to make driving dangerous.
• Flash Flooding: Heavy rainfall from slow-moving or repeating thunderstorms can overwhelm drainage systems and cause rapid flooding of low-lying areas, roads, and streams.
• Frequent Lightning: Severe thunderstorms are often accompanied by intense lightning, which poses a significant risk of electrocution.
• Tornadoes (Rarely): While not always present, some severe thunderstorms can spawn tornadoes. In these cases, the NWS may issue a Tornado Warning in addition to the Severe Thunderstorm Warning.

When a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued, the NWS specifies the affected areas, the time period the warning is in effect, and the specific hazards associated with the storm. This information is disseminated through various channels, including:

• NOAA Weather Radio: A dedicated radio frequency that broadcasts official NWS warnings and forecasts.
• Local Television and Radio Stations: News outlets interrupt regular programming to broadcast warnings.
• Weather Apps and Websites: Many weather apps and websites provide real-time alerts based on your location.
• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): Text messages sent directly to mobile phones in the affected area.

If a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued for your area, take the following precautions immediately:

• Seek Shelter: Go indoors to a sturdy building. The best option is an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.
• Stay Informed: Continue to monitor weather updates from reliable sources.
• Avoid Electrical Appliances: Unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from power surges. Avoid using landline telephones.
• If Outdoors: If you cannot reach a safe building, take shelter in a low-lying area, such as a ditch. Be aware of the risk of flash flooding.
• If in a Vehicle: Pull over to a safe location away from trees and power lines. Turn on your hazard lights and wait out the storm. Avoid driving through flooded areas.

Remember, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is a serious alert that demands immediate action. Taking appropriate precautions can significantly reduce your risk of injury or death during a severe weather event. Stay informed and be prepared.