Is there a rating scale for thunderstorms?
In 2010, Henry Margusity, senior meteorologist for Accuweather.com, unveiled the “TS Scale.” The scale rates thunderstorms from a weak TS1 to a dangerous TS5. Average rate of rainfall, maximum wind speeds, hail size, lightning frequency, tornado potential and capacity for damage are factors.
What is a severe thunderstorm watch in effect?
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are favorable for the development of severe weather, including large hail and damaging winds in and close to the watch area. Persons should be on the lookout for rapidly weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
What is a thunderstorm watch 399?
PDS Thunderstorm Watch number 399 has been issued for portions of Minnesota and Wisconsin until 2 am CDT. Widespread damaging wind gusts to 90 mph, large hail, and a couple tornadoes are likely this evening and overnight. See spc.noaa.gov for more info. #
What are the 5 levels of severe weather?
They consist of 5 categories: marginal, slight, enhanced, moderate and high. A level 1 or marginal risk consist of isolated and short-lived severe thunderstorms that have limited intensity; usually these storms will have winds between 40-60 mph, hail up to 1″ and a low tornado risk.
When was the last f5 tornado?
May 20, 2013
The nation’s last EF-5 tornado struck Moore, Oklahoma, on May 20, 2013.
What 19 states make up Tornado Alley?
Tornado alley is a cluster of states in the midwestern US where tornadoes are most likely to occur. Tornado alley is typically identified as including parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Indiana, Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, and Ohio.
Can severe thunderstorms produce tornadoes?
Severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes with little or no advance warning. Lightning frequency is not a criteria for issuing a severe thunderstorm warning. They are usually issued for a duration of one hour. They can be issued without a Severe Thunderstorm Watch being already in effect.
What should you do after a severe thunderstorm?
What to Do After Severe Weather
- Stay Informed: Continue listening to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay updated about severe thunderstorm watches and warnings.
- Contact Your Family and Loved Ones: Let your family and close friends know that you’re okay so they can help spread the word.
What’s the difference between a thunderstorm watch and a thunderstorm warning?
Types of storm watches and warnings. Severe Thunderstorms. A thunderstorm watch, which can be in effect for several hours, means weather conditions exist where severe thunderstorms can easily develop. A thunderstorm warning means current storm conditions can turn worse, including heavy rain and strong winds.
What do you do in a severe thunderstorm?
The best way to protect yourself and your family in case of a thunderstorm is to follow these steps:
- Move to a safe place, away from windows and doors.
- Turn around, don’t drown – avoid flood waters.
- Prepare for secondary risks such as flooding, power outages, landslides and damaged buildings.
What is a 5% chance of tornado?
A 5% risk for tornadoes means that there is 5% chance you will see a tornado within 25 miles of any point within the forecast area.
What speed is Cat 5 hurricane?
157 mph
| Category | Sustained Winds |
|---|---|
| 2 | 96-110 mph 83-95 kt 154-177 km/h |
| 3 (major) | 111-129 mph 96-112 kt 178-208 km/h |
| 4 (major) | 130-156 mph 113-136 kt 209-251 km/h |
| 5 (major) | 157 mph or higher 137 kt or higher 252 km/h or higher |