Severe Weather Awareness Tips

As we leave winter and head into spring, a clash of the seasons begins. Springtime is the most likely time for the majority of the United States to experience severe weather. Lightning, floods, tornadoes and high winds can pose serious threats to the public and it’s important to understand the difference between “Watches” and “Warnings.”

When a Watch is Issued

Watches may be issued hours before a storm. The sky may be sunny when you first hear a tornado or severe thunderstorm watch. Remember, a watch just means that conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms and/or tornadoes.

  • Check Weather Information Again: Don’t be caught off guard! While watches may be issued before storms form, thunderstorms may be developing when the watch is posted, or thunderstorms may be ongoing and moving into the area. By checking the weather information again, you will be aware of what is going on around you.

When a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is Issued

Do not ignore severe thunderstorm warnings! Severe thunderstorm warnings often precede tornado warnings, providing you with extra time to prepare for a dangerous storm. If there’s a severe thunderstorm headed your way, you should monitor it closely, especially if a tornado watch is also in effect.

  • Move Indoors and Away From Windows: Again, do not ignore severe thunderstorm warnings. Severe thunderstorms can produce damaging straight-line winds and large hail. It is important to move inside a sturdy structure and stay away from windows.

When a Tornado Warning is Issued

Tornado warnings contain information that lists the cities and towns in the path of a tornado. The National Weather Service strives to provide the most detailed and accurate information possible. If you are in the path of the tornado, now is the time to take action! Allow yourself plenty of time to get to your tornado shelter or safe space:

  • Move quickly! Don’t waste valuable time by trying to see the tornado. If you wait until you can see or hear it coming, it may be too late.
  • Be sure you’re dressed, and don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes!
  • Take your cell phone, car keys and identification with you.
  • GET IN, GET DOWN, AND COVER UP!

This is EXTREMELY important. If you are outside, get inside. Get underground if possible. If you’re already in a sturdy building, go to the lowest floor in the middle of the building. Put as many walls between you and the outside as possible. Flying and falling debris are a storm’s number one killer. Use pillows, blankets, cushions, coats, helmets, etc. to cover up and protect your head and body from flying debris.

  • DO NOT seek shelter under a highway overpass. They are not safe!
  • DO NOT open doors or windows. This does not help!
  • DO NOT go outside to find the tornado, even if you think it’s far away!

Contact Macro for Disaster Relief

If your business is in need of emergency services due to a hurricane or other natural disaster, Macro’s Emergency Fuel Management division is here for you. Contact us today for your disaster relief needs.