Tips for storms and severe weather in Green Country

Severe weather updates

Whether it is time for a family review of your severe weather plan or you just moved to Green Country, it is key to know what you can expect weather-wise in Green Country.

During the Spring and Fall, Oklahoma can see just about everything: strong-to-damaging winds, severe storms, tornadoes, even flooding conditions.

One of the big things to know is the difference between a watch and a warning. The basic difference is that a watch means something could happen while a watch means that something is happening.

Let's break down the different threats we see and what you need to know about each of them.

Severe Storms/Tornadoes

No two storms are alike. Some storms will produce a tornado if the conditions are right, some will have torrential rains and others will have very strong winds. Each of these different threats leaves behind a different type of damage.

Tornadoes were not included in the link above because they are their own thing.

Tornadoes range in intensity from EF-0 to EF-5 based on the damage that is left behind and wind speeds are estimated.

  • EF-0 --> 65-85 mph
  • EF-1 --> 86-110 mph
  • EF-2 --> 111-135 mph
  • EF-3 --> 136-165 mph
  • EF-4 --> 166-200 mph
  • EF-5 --> 200+ mph

When there is a threat of tornadoes, it is good to make sure that you and your family know the severe weather plan.

Lightning

Whether you are floating the river, hanging out on the lake, or going to the beach, it is important to know safety precautions to one of the top three storm-related killers in the United States.

If you are close enough to hear thunder, you are close enough to get struck by lightning.

Another thing to keep in mind is that not every thunderstorm fits into the previously listed "severe storm" category. You can have thunder and lightning without a severe storm.

Flooding

Flooding can be one of the more dangerous things about storms moving through.

There can be flash floods, river floods or even floods from just consistent rain. TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN is the key phrase to remember when you think about flooding.

  • 6 inches of moving water can knock over an adult
  • 12 inches (1 foot) can float a car or small SUV
  • 24 inches (2 feet) can carry away most vehicles

The dangers of flooding aren't just an immediate threat but can stick around even once floodwaters recede. There are many things you can do to protect yourself before and after a flood.

Other Key Things

After reviewing your family’s severe weather plan and preparing for any spring weather, make sure you have registered your storm shelter. Registering your storm shelter can help first responders rescue you should debris be on your shelter door and clear an area in a timely manner.

It is also key to make sure you know which county your town is located in and counties surrounding your town. Knowing these two things can help you track the storms and know when you should be taking precautions and actually seeking shelter.

DOWNLOAD this map of counties FOX23 covers along with some surrounding counties. The FOX23 Severe Weather Team recommends highlighting your county and placing this where everyone in the house can see it.