Severe Weather Preparedness

Understand Severe Weather Terms

Understanding severe weather terms can help you and your loved ones prepare.

  • Hurricane Warning: show the onset of hurricane conditions expected in the warning area within the next 48 hours.
    • During a hurricane warning: complete storm preparation;
    • leave the affected area if directed by local officials.
  • Hurricane Watch: issued when a hurricane with sustained winds of 74 mph (65 knots, 118 km/h) or higher is possible.
  • Severe Thunderstorm Watch: there is a possibility that severe thunderstorms may occur in your area.
  • Severe Thunderstorm Warning: a severe thunderstorm is occurring or will likely occur soon in your area.
  • Flash Flood Watch: due to heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time, your area may experience flooding.
  • Flash Flood Warning: Flash flooding is in progress, imminent, or highly likely. Seek higher ground immediately or evacuate if directed to do so.
  • Tornado Watch: Tornadoes are possible in your area. Remain alert for approaching storms.
  • Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.

Prepare For Severe Weather

Download the FEMA app to receive alerts and use a NOAA weather radio to stay informed. More steps that you can take to keep yourself and loved ones safe include:

  • An emergency kit prepared with supplies. Include things such as:
    • Alternate fuel source for heating your home,
    • Flashlights and batteries,
    • Blankets,
    • Food that needs no cooking or refrigeration,
    • 3 day supply of water,
    • Prescription medicines,
    • Battery operated radio,
    • Flashlights, and
    • Cell phone chargers.
  • Prepare your car with emergency supplies. Have maintenance service on your vehicle as often as the manufacturer recommends.
  • Check batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors.
  • Update important documents: insurance information and home inventory. Store them in your emergency kit or a waterproof container.

 

Know What To Do During Severe Weather: