We continue to bring attention this week to severe weather.  Even though it is still winter we need to think ahead to severe thunderstorm season.

We will concentrate in this blog on WHAT IS A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM? See the definition below.

The damage from the strong wind gusts of a severe thunderstorm can be just as bad as the damage made by a tornado. Severe thunderstorms are much more common than tornadoes.

What is the difference between a SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH and a SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING?

What should you do during a SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING?

Typically a SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING will be issued for an area as big as a county or two and for a period of up to one hour. Specific towns will be mentioned in the text that are in the path of the storm.  You should listen for your community or town name so that you may take cover immediately to protect you and your family. You should have a plan in place with the family.

If you are driving and get caught in the path of a severe storm, pull over to the side of the road until it passes.  Heavy rain falling from any thunderstorm can flood roads quickly.  So never try to drive through an area where water covers the road, even if you think it is shallow.  Water may sweep your car away if you attempt to drive through it.

To get more information on thunderstorms and severe weather safety, go to weather.gov.

Stay safe!