Office of Emergency Management

Severe Weather/Thunderstorms

While some thunderstorms can be seen as they approach, others are not visible. Recognizing the warning signs can help .

Severe Thunderstorm Watch and Warning

The National Weather Service is responsible for issuing both a thunderstorm "Watch" and thunderstorm "Warning".

THUNDERSTORM WATCH - When conditions are such that winds reach or exceed 58 miles per hour or hail three-fourths of an inch in diameter are likely to occur.

THUNDERSTORM WARNING - A severe thunderstorm meeting the "thunderstorm watch" conditions has been sighted or observed on radar.

Important Information

Warning signs of thunderstorm conditions:

• Dark towering or threatening clouds
• Distant lightning and thunder

During a Thunderstorm