Severe Weather and Warnings: A Complete Guide

What Does Severe Weather Mean?

Severe weather refers to dangerous atmospheric conditions that pose risks to life, property, and travel. This includes high winds, heavy rain, hail, tornadoes, hurricanes, winter storms, and extreme heat or cold. Severe weather events can develop rapidly, making early warnings essential for safety and preparedness.

Types of Severe Weather Events

Thunderstorms & Lightning

Severe Thunderstorms: Storms with damaging winds over 58 mph (93 km/h), large hail, or tornadoes.
Lightning: Can strike up to 10 miles from a storm, causing fires, injuries, and power outages.

Tornadoes

Rotating columns of air with wind speeds over 110 mph (177 km/h).
Can cause catastrophic destruction in minutes.

Hurricanes & Tropical Storms

Hurricanes: Massive storms with 74+ mph (119+ km/h) winds, storm surges, and widespread flooding.
Tropical Storms: Can bring heavy rain, coastal flooding, and strong winds below hurricane strength.

Winter Storms & Extreme Cold

Blizzards: Intense snowstorms with low visibility and strong winds over 35 mph (56 km/h).
Ice Storms & Freezing Rain: Creates dangerous road conditions and power outages.
Extreme Cold & Wind Chill: Frostbite and hypothermia risks increase when temperatures drop below freezing.

Heat Waves & Extreme Heat

Heat Waves: Prolonged high temperatures that can lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
High Humidity: Can make temperatures feel even hotter and cause dangerous heat indexes.

Floods & Flash Flooding

Flash Floods: Rapid water rise that can occur within minutes of heavy rain.
River & Coastal Flooding: Long-lasting flooding from hurricanes, heavy rain, or storm surges.

Windstorms & Sandstorms

Strong Winds & Blustery Conditions: Can cause power outages, flying debris, and travel hazards.
Sandstorms & Dust Storms: Reduce visibility and pose health risks due to airborne particles.

Understanding Weather Warnings & Alerts

Watches vs. Warnings: What’s the Difference?

Watch: Severe weather is possible—stay alert and prepare.
Warning: Severe weather is happening or imminent—take action immediately.

Common Weather Alerts

Severe Thunderstorm Watch/Warning – Strong storms with damaging winds or hail expected.
Tornado Watch/Warning – Conditions favorable for tornadoes or one has been spotted.
Hurricane Watch/Warning – A tropical cyclone is approaching, with potentially catastrophic impacts.
Winter Storm Warning – Heavy snow, ice, or blizzard conditions expected.
Heat Advisory/Excessive Heat Warning – Dangerous temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses.
Flash Flood Watch/Warning – Flooding is possible or occurring, avoid low-lying areas.

Stay Ahead of Severe Weather with Brzzy Weather

With Brzzy Weather, you’ll always know when severe weather is approaching, what to expect, and how to stay safe.

Live Storm Tracking: Get real-time updates on severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, and winter storms.
Severe Weather Alerts: Stay ahead with official warnings and emergency notifications.
Fun & Interactive: Follow weather animations, storm visuals, and engaging insights.

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Be prepared for severe weather warnings—track storms, stay safe, and get real-time alerts with Brzzy Weather!