Thunderstorms to be announced by severity

As of this week, the National Weather Service has changed how hazard information is communicated with the public. From now on, thunderstorms will be announced according to three tiers of impact.

“Severe thunderstorms can be life-threatening, but not all severe storms are the same,” according to the announcement, which lists conditions ranging from tornadoes and hail to cloud-to-ground lightning and flash floods.

The three categories begin with “base” severe thunderstorms, which include the following criteria: quarter-sized hail and/or 58 mph thunderstorm winds. This will not activate a wireless emergency alert on smartphones throughout the area of impact.

The second category is “considerable,” which will indicate a storm that could bring 1.75-inch hail (golf ball sized) and/or 70 mph thunderstorm winds. This will not activate a wireless emergency alert.

The third and most severe category is “destructive,” which includes 2.75-inch hail (baseball sized) and/or 80 mph thunderstorm winds. Nationwide, the National Weather Service estimates that this applies to only 10% of severe thunderstorms each year.

If a storm receives this tag, it will automatically activate a wireless emergency alert to smartphones within the area. This category is intended to convey to the public that urgent action is necessary as a life-threatening event is occurring that may cause substantial damage to property.

The National Weather Service recommends preparing for severe thunderstorms by signing up for notifications and creating a plan for communicating with your family that includes an emergency meeting place and choosing a safe room in your home, such as a basement or interior room on the lowest floor with no windows.

It’s a good idea to conduct thunderstorm drills to help everyone know what to do if a severe storm is approaching. The National Weather Service also recommends preparing your property by keeping trees and branches trimmed and, if you have time before severe weather hits, securing loose objects, closing windows and doors and moving valuable objects inside or under a sturdy structure.

During a severe storm, it’s recommended that you go to your secure location and take your pets with you if time allows. If you are at work or school, stay away from windows and do not go to large, open rooms such as cafeterias or gyms.

If you are outside, find a sturdy building immediately; sheds and storage facilities are not safe and taking shelter under a tree can be deadly as it may fall on you and also puts you at greater risk of being struck by lightning. If you are in a vehicle, you are safer than if you are outside but should still drive to the closest secure shelter if there is time.