What a severe threat means to you

As we begin severe weather season, it is important to be aware of the threats that will be impacting you and your family. The Storm Prediction Center issues different severe threats when impactful storms are expected. The ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather team is constantly tracking and keeping you up to date on the threats that are issued. It is crucial to understand the different threat levels to help prepare and protect yourself.

There are five different risk levels. The lowest risk is the marginal risk. When this is issued, expect isolated severe thunderstorms that are limited in coverage and duration. Winds can be up to 40 mph with a chance of hail. Even though this is the lowest threat, it is still important to take this seriously. The next level up is the slight risk. During this threat, thunderstorms will be more organized, but still not widespread. Tornados are possible with strong winds, and hail up to 2 inches in diameter.

Widespread storms become more likely when the enhanced risk is issued. During the enhanced threat, we expect numerous severe storms that can include a few tornados, damaging winds, and damaging hail. The threat becomes even more threatening in the moderate risk. In a moderate risk we expect organized, widespread, and long lived storms. The longevity of these storms give a greater chance for stronger tornados and greater damage from winds and hail.

The highest risk is the high risk issued by the storm prediction center. This is the most serious threat and should be taken very seriously, however it is rare to see this threat issued. Tornado outbreaks are likely, with very long lived and destructive thunderstorms.

It is important to take all threats issued by the Storm Prediction Center seriously.The ABC 17 Weather Team will alert you of any potential severe risks on air and online.