Severe thunderstorm watch
Updated
Severe thunderstorms could develop in or near the area covered by a Severe Thunderstorm Watch. The Storm Prediction Center issues the watch for a large region, often for several hours, while a Severe Thunderstorm Warning comes from your local National Weather Service office. Severe thunderstorms are those with winds of at least 58 mph (50 knots), hail 1 inch or larger, or a tornado.
Right nowKp 1.33as of See every state
Aurora forecast and conditions:swpc.noaa.gov.
Watch vs warning
| Who issues it | What it means | Area and duration | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storm Prediction Center | Severe thunderstorms are possible | Large area, usually several hours | Stay informed and be ready to act |
| Local National Weather Service office | Severe weather is reported or indicated by radar | Smaller area, around a city or county | Take shelter immediately |
What counts as severe
A thunderstorm is severe when it meets any one of these criteria. The Storm Prediction Center also watches for significant severe weather, defined by winds of at least 75 mph or hail of at least 2 inches.
- Tornado
- Wind speeds at or above 58 mph (50 knots)
- Hail 1 inch in diameter or larger
- Significant severe: winds 75 mph or greater, or hail 2 inches or greater
What to do during a watch
- Know where you would take shelter if a warning is issued.
- Keep your phone charged and within reach.
- Secure or bring in loose items outdoors.
- Monitor the sky and a reliable weather source.
- Go indoors as soon as you hear thunder.