Severe weather season is upon us and it’s important to know some weather terminology when it comes to severe weather. First, a severe thunderstorm watch is issued when severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states. Location and/or timing is still uncertain. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.
A severe thunderstorm warning is issued when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger of life and property. Take shelter inside. Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds. Warnings typically include a much smaller area, like the size of a city or small county, that may be impacted by a large hail or damaging wind. People are encouraged to keep their eyes to the sky and their ears tuned to some type of media, such as a weather radio or local radio, such as KOFO, to stay informed on the latest weather conditions.