Spring is often considered severe storm season in the United States.
You’ve seen the warnings pop up on your phone , but do you know what actually makes a thunderstorm severe? Spring is peak severe weather season, and a little knowledge goes a long way.
The National Weather Service defines a severe thunderstorm as one that produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter (about the size of a quarter), wind gusts of 58 mph or stronger, or a tornado.
Any thunderstorm that meets one or more of these criteria is classified as severe because these hazards can cause significant damage to property and pose serious risks to people. For example, strong winds can knock down trees and power lines, large hail can damage roofs and vehicles, and tornadoes can cause severe destruction in a short amount of time.


Spring is often considered severe storm season in the United States because the atmosphere has the right combination of ingredients for powerful storms to develop. During spring, warm and moist air from the Gulf of Mexico begins moving north while colder, drier air from Canada continues pushing south. When these different air masses collide, they create unstable conditions in the atmosphere that help thunderstorms grow stronger.


The National Weather Service notes that the peak severe weather months are typically March, April, and May, when these temperature contrasts and strong weather systems are most common.
These conditions increase the chances for severe thunderstorms, large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes across many parts of the country.
What’s the difference between a Watch and a Warning?
A watch means that conditions in the atmosphere are favorable for severe thunderstorms to develop in a large area. During a watch, people should stay alert, monitor weather updates, and be prepared in case storms begin to form.
A severe warning means that a severe thunderstorm has already been detected by weather radar or reported by trained weather spotters. This indicates that dangerous weather—such as large hail or damaging winds—is happening or about to occur in a specific area. When a warning is issued, people should take action immediately and move to a safe place.


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