The National Weather Service (NWS) Storm Prediction Center has issued a Tornado Watch for parts of Massachusetts, Western Maine, New Hampshire, Northeast New York, and Vermont. This watch is effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 1:00 PM until 8:00 PM EDT.
• Tornadoes: A few tornadoes are likely
• Damaging Wind Gusts: Scattered gusts up to 70 mph are likely
• Large Hail: Scattered hail events up to 1.5 inches in diameter are possible
Summary:
Thunderstorms are expected to develop this afternoon across eastern New York and will track eastward across the watch area throughout the day. These storms have the potential to become supercells capable of producing damaging winds, hail, and a few tornadoes.
Precautionary/Preparedness Actions:
• Stay Informed: A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and around the watch area. Stay alert for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
Understanding Tornado Watches and Warnings:
Tornado Watch:
A Tornado Watch is issued when atmospheric conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. This does not mean that a tornado is currently happening, but rather that the potential exists. It serves as a heads-up to be prepared and stay alert.
What to Do During a Tornado Watch:
1. Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from reliable sources like our Noyes’ 1DegreeOutside weather app.
2. Prepare Your Safe Place: Identify the safest place in your home or building to take shelter if a tornado warning is issued. This should be a small, windowless room on the lowest level of your home, such as a basement or interior bathroom or closet.
3. Review Your Emergency Plan: Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan and where to go in case of a tornado.
4. Keep Emergency Supplies Handy: Have a supply kit ready with essentials like water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents.
Tornado Warning:
A Tornado Warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. This means that a tornado is imminent or occurring, and immediate action should be taken to protect life and property.
What to Do During a Tornado Warning:
1. Take Shelter Immediately: Move to your pre-designated safe place. If you are outside, seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately.
2. Protect Yourself: Get under something sturdy like a heavy table or workbench. Use your arms to protect your head and neck.
Primary Threats:
3. Avoid Windows: Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls. Flying debris from high winds is one of the greatest dangers during a tornado.
4. Monitor Weather Updates: Continue to listen to weather updates and do not leave your shelter until you are sure the threat has passed.
By understanding and responding appropriately to tornado watches and warnings, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of severe weather.
For more detailed information and updates on severe weather conditions, please use the 1DegreeOutside mobile app and follow us on social media @1DegreeOutside.
