As severe storms are expected to sweep through parts of the United States overnight, meteorologists are urging residents to stay prepared and take necessary precautions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has advised people not to take extreme measures, such as sleeping in storm shelters, but to ensure they have quick access to a safe space if conditions worsen.
"This is one of those nights where you need to have a way to be alerted in the middle of the night," said Mark Fox, a meteorologist with the NWS. "You don’t have to stay in your shelter all night, but you need to be able to get there quickly, even if you are woken up from deep sleep."
Fox emphasized the importance of keeping phone notifications on, as emergency alerts for severe thunderstorms or tornado warnings will trigger an alarm. "If we have a severe thunderstorm warning with winds of 128 km/h or higher, or a tornado warning, your phone will alert you. It’s going to wake you up," he explained.
March Storms in the US: Understanding the Risks
Springtime, particularly from March to October, is known for severe weather conditions in many parts of the United States, including powerful thunderstorms and tornadoes. These storms can be unpredictable and destructive, making preparation crucial.
Fox cautioned residents not to assume it will be "just another night" and advised them to have an emergency plan in place. "It’s March, and it’s Oklahoma," he said, referring to a US state frequently hit by severe weather. "Make sure you know what to do and can act quickly."
He also urged pet owners to plan ahead. "When storms hit, pets often react by barking or getting anxious. Have a plan for them so you can take shelter efficiently," he advised.
Tornado Alerts: Understanding Watches and Warnings
With the risk of tornadoes increasing during severe storms, experts stress the importance of knowing the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning, which could be critical for survival.
Tornado Watch: "Be Prepared"
A tornado watch is issued when weather conditions suggest a potential for tornadoes to develop. These alerts do not mean a tornado is imminent but indicate the need for heightened awareness. Watches typically cover large areas and can be issued several hours before a storm strikes.
Tornado Warning: "Take Action"
A tornado warning, on the other hand, is an urgent alert that signals immediate danger. This means a tornado has been spotted or detected by weather radar and could strike at any moment. When a warning is issued, residents must seek shelter immediately, preferably in a sturdy building, away from windows, and on the lowest floor. People in mobile homes, vehicles, or outdoors should find the nearest substantial shelter and protect themselves from flying debris.
Who Issues These Alerts?
Tornado watches are issued by the Storm Prediction Center (SPC), a US government agency responsible for monitoring severe weather risks. A typical watch covers an area of around 25,000 square miles—roughly half the size of Iowa, a US state in the Midwest.
"A watch is issued when conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms or tornadoes," said Dan Kottlowski, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather, a private weather forecasting company. "It doesn’t mean severe weather will definitely happen, but it signals a developing threat."
Tornado warnings, however, come from local offices of the NWS and are based on real-time reports of tornado sightings or radar data. These warnings follow strict criteria, such as detecting hail larger than 1 inch in diameter or wind speeds exceeding 88 km/h.
What to Do When a Storm Hits?
Fox recommends keeping a flashlight, sturdy shoes, and a way to track the storm nearby in case shelter is needed. Meteorologists also advise staying tuned to official weather channels for updates and being prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
While severe storms are common in the United States during this time of year, the potential for high winds, hail, and tornadoes makes it essential for residents to take warnings seriously and act quickly when necessary.
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