GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Spring brings warmer weather and a heightened anticipation for the quickly approaching summer months. Here in West Texas it also brings the increased threat of severe weather.
Thunderstorms are classified by the National Weather Service. A thunderstorm is considered severe when it produces damaging 58 mph wind gusts or hail one inch in diameter or larger. The occurrence of a tornado also classifies a thunderstorm as severe.
According to The National Severe Storms Laboratory at https://www.nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/thunderstorms/types/ there are different types of thunderstorms; single-cell, multi-cell, squall line and supercell.
Single-cell thunderstorms are small, brief, weak storms that grow and die within around an hour. Single-cell storms may produce brief heavy rain and lightning.
Multi-cell storms are a common thunderstorm in which new updrafts form along the leading edge of rain-cooled air known as the gust front. Individual storms usually last 30 to 60 minutes, while the system as a whole may last for several hours. Multi-cell storms can produce hail, strong winds, brief tornadoes or heavy rain causing flooding.
A group of storms arranged in a line is called a squall line. Often accompanied by squalls, sudden or strong bursts of wind, and heavy rain, squall line storms can be hundreds of miles long, but are typically 10 to 20 miles wide.
Supercell storms last longer than an hour and are a highly organized storm feeding off of an updraft that is tilted and rotating. This rotating updraft, as large as 10 miles in diameter and up to 50,000 feet tall, can be present for 20 to 60 minutes before a tornado forms. This rotation is called a mesocyclone when it is detected by Doppler radar. The tornado is a small extension of this larger rotation. Violent and large tornadoes usually come from supercells.
During springtime, while getting ready for summer and warmer weather safety keep in mind and be prepared for severe weather.
Meaning of weather notifications:
Severe thunderstorm watch: Conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms. Remain alert for further updates.
Severe thunderstorm warning: Severe thunderstorms are in the area. Take cover indoors immediately. Listen to the local television or radio station for further updates.
Being prepared in advance is one of the best ways to help minimize risks.
Before the storm:
- Develop a disaster plan and disaster kit.
- Check the weather forecast before leaving for extended periods of time outdoors.
- If a thunderstorm is approaching, keep a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration radio with you.
- Practice your plan.
- Watch for signs of an approaching storm.
- Postpone activities outdoors if there is an imminent threat.
During the storm if outside:
- Move inside if possible, do not seek shelter in small sheds, under trees or in convertible vehicles.
- If there is no shelter available, find a low spot away from trees, fences or poles and make sure your spot will not flood.
- If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stand up, sit low to the ground on the balls of your feet.
- Put your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. The goal is to make yourself as small a target as possible. Do not lie down, have as little contact with the ground as possible.
- If you are swimming or fishing in a boat, get to land immediately and seek shelter.
During the storm if inside:
- Do not shower or take a bath while it is storming.
- Stay off of the telephone and turn the air-conditioner off to prevent serious damage from power surge.
- Go to your shelter, when you are home take your disaster kit with you.
- Listen for updates on the radio.
- Remain in your shelter until the warning is over.
For more information regarding storms and ways to prepare visit www.weather.gov
Information from The National Severe Storms Laboratory https://www.nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/thunderstorms/types/ was used in the writing of this article.