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Getting Started with Severe Weather Alerts in the United States

June 18, 2026 · The Clime Team
Getting Started with Severe Weather Alerts in the United States

Staying informed about severe weather is crucial for safety and preparedness. Here's how you can set up severe weather alerts in the United States:

1. Why Are Severe Weather Alerts Important?

Severe weather alerts provide timely information about hazardous conditions, such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods, allowing you to take necessary precautions.

2. How Do Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) Work?

WEA are short emergency messages sent by authorized authorities to alert the public about emergencies in their area. These alerts are broadcasted to all compatible devices within a specific area.

3. How to Enable Severe Weather Alerts on Your Smartphone

For iPhone Users:

  • Allow Location Access:

  • Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.

  • Ensure Location Services is turned on.

  • Scroll down and select Weather.

  • Choose Always under Allow Location Access.

  • Enable Notifications:

  • Open the Weather app.

  • Tap the three lines in the bottom-right corner.

  • Tap the three dots in the top-right corner and select Notifications.

  • Toggle on Severe Weather for your current location and any other locations you wish to monitor.

For Android Users:

  • Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts:
  • Go to Settings > Connections > Safety and emergency > Wireless Emergency Alerts.
  • Toggle on Allow alerts.

4. How to Set Up Alerts for Specific Locations

Many weather apps and services allow you to monitor multiple locations:

  • Add Multiple Locations:

  • In your weather app, search for the desired city, ZIP code, or address.

  • Add it to your list of monitored locations.

  • Customize Alert Settings:

  • Adjust notification preferences for each location to receive alerts for specific weather events.

5. How to Receive Alerts via Text or Email

Some services offer alerts through text messages or emails:

  • WeatherUSA's Aware Service:
  • Provides real-time weather alerts via text or email.
  • Allows selection of alerts based on county or state.
  • Offers a "quiet time" feature to mute notifications during specified hours. (weatherusa.net)

6. How to Set Up Alerts on Smart Speakers

Smart speakers can also provide weather alerts:

  • Amazon Alexa:
  • Say, “Alexa, tell me when there’s a severe weather alert.”

7. How to Stay Informed During Severe Weather

  • Monitor Local News:

  • Stay updated with local news channels for the latest information.

  • Use Multiple Sources:

  • Rely on various platforms to ensure comprehensive coverage.

By setting up severe weather alerts, you can receive timely notifications about hazardous conditions, allowing you to take necessary precautions and stay safe.

Frequently Asked Questions