Severe Weather Awareness Week in New York State

The National Weather Service and the New York State Office of Emergency Management have 
proclaimed April 20 to April 26 Severe Weather Awareness Week in New York State.

To reduce your chances of being killed or injured by severe weather, it is important to 
understand the meaning of severe weather watches and warnings.

Severe thunderstorms are defined as those thunderstorms that produce winds of 58 mph or 
greater, hail of one inch in diameter or larger, or a tornado.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means that severe thunderstorms are possible over the next 
several hours.

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning means that severe thunderstorms are imminent or occurring. 
You should seek shelter immediately when a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Even if a thunderstorm is not considered severe, it is always a good idea to go indoors 
since lightning is a potential threat. By definition, all thunderstorms contain lightning,
and all lightning is dangerous.

A Tornado Warning means that a tornado is imminent or occurring. Take shelter immediately 
on the lowest floor of a sturdy building away from windows which can shatter.

A flash flood warning means that flooding is imminent or occurring. Flood waters can rise 
rapidly. Move to higher ground immediately when a flash flood warning is issued.

NOAA Weather Radio offers the best way to stay in touch with extreme weather conditions 
24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your National Weather Service highly recommends everyone 
have access to a NOAA Weather Radio. 

The Moose and the Blizzard are equipped with the Emergency Alert System equipment that is designed to immediately inform listeners of approaching severe weather.