24/7 Emergency Service
Summer Storms in Pittston
6/2/2022 (Permalink)
We're always here to help following the storm.
Severe Weather
It's very exciting to say that it feels as though Summer is here to stay! With highs in the 80s most of us are rejoicing and also probably excited for the first thunderstorm of the season. Although it is relaxing and refreshing, it is very important to keep in mind safety when dealing with severe storms. When storms strike NEPA, do you know the difference between a watch and a warning?
During severe weather, a number of alerts may flash on the TV screen or on your mobile device. But do you know what they mean, and which ones require immediate action?
Severe Thunderstorm WATCH
A thunderstorm is considered severe when it exhibits one or more of the following:
- Large hail (hailstones that are one inch diameter or greater, so hail the size of a quarter or larger fits this criterion).
- Wind gusts of 58 mph or greater.
- A tornado.
A severe thunderstorm watch means that atmospheric conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorm development. The severe thunderstorm watch outlines an area where an organized threat of severe thunderstorms is expected generally during a three- to six-hour period.
Severe Thunderstorm WARNING
A severe thunderstorm warning means that a severe thunderstorm is imminent: It is occurring or is about to occur. Severe thunderstorm warnings are issued by the local National Weather Service office when it deems a particular thunderstorm has met, or will soon meet, the severe criteria listed above. Severe thunderstorm warnings are usually highly localized – covering parts of one to several counties – and generally last for 30 to 60 minutes.
During a severe thunderstorm warning, it is important to get to safety immediately. Severe winds – gusts of 58 mph or greater – can down trees and power lines, causing injury and potentially death to those hit by large falling objects and other debris. In addition, if a severe thunderstorm is producing large hail, injury and significant property damage can result.
It is important to remember the differences between these storms and always be prepared to take action. Our SERVPRO franchise is highly trained to respond to any size disaster, and we could mitigate any damage caused by severe storms this season.