How does a severe weather produce thunderstorms?

A Severe Thunderstorm WATCH is issued by the NOAA Storm Prediction Center meteorologists who are watching the weather 24/7 across the entire U.S. for weather conditions that are favorable for severe thunderstorms. A watch can cover parts of a state or several states. Watch and prepare for severe weather and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio to know when warnings are issued. read more

“Severe weather” is not a term used in meteorology. In aviation, you may receive a SIGMET, which is, a significant meteorological information such as, shear wind, volcanic ashes, or thunderstorms that may endanger a flight. read more

Some severe thunderstorms can produce hail larger than softballs or winds over 100 mph, so please pay attention to the weather so you know when severe storms are possible. Thunderstorms also produce tornadoes and dangerous lightning; heavy rain can cause flash flooding. read more