Severe Weather Basics Cheat Sheet

Severe weather encompasses a range of atmospheric conditions that can pose significant threats to life and property. Understanding these phenomena and knowing how to respond can make a crucial difference during such events.

What Are the Main Types of Severe Weather?

Severe weather includes:

• Thunderstorms: Characterized by lightning, heavy rainfall, and potential for hail and tornadoes.
• Tornadoes: Violently rotating columns of air extending from thunderstorms to the ground.
• Floods: Overflow of water onto normally dry land, often due to heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt.
• Hurricanes: Intense tropical storms with strong winds and heavy rains.
• Winter Storms: Include snow, sleet, freezing rain, and blizzards.

How Do Thunderstorms Form?

Thunderstorms develop when three key ingredients are present:

1. Moisture: Provides the fuel for the storm.
2. Unstable Air: Warm air rises rapidly, leading to cloud formation.
3. Lifting Mechanism: Triggers the upward movement of air, such as a cold front or mountain range.

These conditions lead to the development of cumulonimbus clouds, which can produce severe weather. (nssl.noaa.gov)

What Are the Dangers of Thunderstorms?

Thunderstorms can cause:

• Flash Flooding: Rapid flooding due to heavy rainfall, often occurring within six hours of the event.
• Hail: Ice pellets that can damage vehicles, roofs, and crops.
• Damaging Winds: Straight-line winds exceeding 58 mph can uproot trees and damage structures.
• Tornadoes: Rotating columns of air that can cause extensive damage.

How Are Thunderstorms Classified?

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces:

• Hail one inch in diameter or larger.
• Winds gusting in excess of 50 knots (57.5 mph).
• A tornado.

These criteria help meteorologists assess the potential impact of a storm. (nssl.noaa.gov)

What Are the Safety Rules During a Thunderstorm?

• Seek Shelter: Go indoors and stay away from windows.
• Avoid Electrical Appliances: Lightning can cause power surges.
• Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from reliable sources.

What Are the Safety Rules During a Tornado?

• Find a Safe Room: Go to the lowest level of your home, preferably a basement or interior room without windows.
• Protect Your Head and Neck: Use heavy furniture or a mattress to shield yourself.
• Stay Informed: Listen to weather updates and heed tornado warnings.

What Are the Safety Rules During a Flood?

• Move to Higher Ground: Avoid areas prone to flooding.
• Avoid Water: Do not drive or walk through floodwaters.
• Stay Informed: Follow local authorities' instructions and stay updated on flood conditions.

How Can I Stay Prepared for Severe Weather?

• Create an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents.
• Develop a Family Emergency Plan: Ensure all family members know evacuation routes and meeting points.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check weather forecasts and heed warnings from local authorities.

By understanding the basics of severe weather and following these safety guidelines, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones during hazardous conditions.