Severe Weather Alerts Cheat Sheet for Parents

As a parent, ensuring your family's safety during severe weather is paramount. Understanding the different types of weather alerts and knowing how to respond can make all the difference.

What Are Severe Weather Alerts?

Severe weather alerts are notifications issued by authorities to inform the public about impending hazardous weather conditions. These alerts are typically categorized into three main types:

1. Advisory: Indicates that a specific weather event is expected to occur, which may not reach warning criteria but could become a nuisance. (weatherbug.com)

2. Watch: Means that conditions are favorable for a particular severe weather event to develop. For example, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch indicates that severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. (weather.gov)

3. Warning: Signifies that severe weather is imminent or occurring. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning, for instance, means that a severe thunderstorm has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. (weather.gov)

Understanding Watches and Warnings

It's crucial to distinguish between watches and warnings to respond appropriately:

• Watch: Stay alert and monitor updates. Conditions are favorable for severe weather, but it hasn't occurred yet.

• Warning: Take immediate action. Severe weather is occurring or imminent.

Common Severe Weather Events and Alerts

Being aware of specific weather events and their corresponding alerts can help you prepare effectively:

• Severe Thunderstorms: These storms can produce large hail, damaging winds, and even tornadoes. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued when a storm meets specific criteria, such as hail one inch in diameter or winds equal to or exceeding 58 miles per hour. (weather.gov)

• Tornadoes: A Tornado Warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. It's essential to seek shelter immediately in a substantial building. (weather.gov)

• Flash Flooding: Occurs when heavy rainfall leads to rapid water accumulation. A Flash Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring. (weather.gov)

How to Stay Informed

To receive timely and accurate weather alerts:

• NOAA Weather Radio: A battery-powered radio that broadcasts continuous broadcasts of official Weather Service information. It's a reliable source for weather updates. (weather.gov)

• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): These are emergency messages sent by authorized government authorities through your mobile carrier. They include alerts about severe weather, local emergencies, AMBER alerts, and Presidential alerts during a national emergency. (weather.gov)

• Local News and Weather Apps: Many local news stations and weather services offer apps that provide real-time updates and alerts.

Creating a Family Emergency Plan

Having a plan ensures that everyone knows what to do during severe weather:

1. Designate Safe Areas: Identify the safest places in your home, such as basements or interior rooms without windows.

2. Communication Plan: Establish how family members will communicate if separated.

3. Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents.

4. Practice Drills: Regularly rehearse your emergency plan to ensure everyone knows their role.

Responding to Alerts

• During a Watch: Stay informed by monitoring weather updates. Ensure your emergency kit is accessible.

• During a Warning: Act immediately. Seek shelter in your designated safe area. Avoid using electrical appliances and stay away from windows.

After the Storm

• Assess Damage: Once it's safe, check your property for damage.

• Stay Alert: Be aware of potential hazards like downed power lines or gas leaks.

• Stay Informed: Continue to monitor weather updates for any additional warnings or advisories.

By understanding severe weather alerts and having a proactive plan, you can ensure the safety of your family during storms.

Highlights:

• Understand Severe Weather Alerts
• Understanding Severe Weather Alerts | WeatherBug | WeatherBug, Published on Tuesday, May 19
• Severe Weather Awareness Week--Watches, Warnings, & Reception