The National Weather Service considers a thunderstorm to be severe if it produces hail 3/4 inch or larger, wind 58 mph or stronger, or tornadoes.

WARNINGS

Warnings are issued when severe weather has been reported or is imminent. Seek shelter immediately if you are in or near the path of the storm.

ISSUED BY COUNTY NAME

Warnings are issued by county names. Know the name of the county you live in and the counties that surround you. Waite Park Residents live in Stearns County.

IF YOU HEAR SIRENS, SEEK SHELTER

Sirens are meant to warn those who are outdoors. If you hear a siren, turn on a radio or TV to hear safety information and seek shelter immediately!

KNOW YOUR EMERGENCY PLAN

Learn the location of designated shelters at work, school, and other public building you frequent. Designate a tornado shelter for where you live. Be sure all family members know the location and when to seek shelter. Make sure to take a battery powered radio to your shelter location when a warning has been issued. A flashlight is nice to have also in the event of a power outage.

WATCHES

Watches are issued when conditions are favorable for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms or flash floods.
When a watch is issued for your area be sure to pay close attention to the weather. Make sure that everyone in your family knows the correct actions to take if the weather worsens. If weather starts to worsen or if you see an approaching storm, immediately turn on your TV or radio to monitor events.