Day 2: Severe Weather Preparedness Week

Today, Feb. 6, is the second day of Severe Weather Preparedness Week.

The topic for today is Thunderstorm Safety: Severe thunderstorms are officially defined as storms that are capable of producing hail that is an inch or larger or wind gusts over 58 mph. 

According to the National Weather Service, hail this size can damage property such as plants, roofs and vehicles. 

Winds this strong are able to break off large branches, knock over trees or cause structural damage to trees. 

Some severe thunderstorms can produce hail larger than softballs or winds over 100 mph. Thunderstorms also produce tornadoes and dangerous lightning; heavy rain can cause flash flooding.  

A  Severe Thunderstorm Watch means that severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states. Be Prepared! 

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning means severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. Take shelter in a substantial building. Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds. Warnings typically encompass a much smaller area (around the size of a city or small county) that may be impacted by a large hail or damaging wind identified by an NWS forecaster on radar or by a trained spotter/law enforcement who is watching the storm. Take Action! 

For more information on Thunderstorm Safety visit the link.