While not all builders include a shelter in the house, they often take the steps to make it very easy for one to be added by the homeowner. The region’s hard clay soil and water table mean that most newer homes do not have a basement, but many homes in historic neighborhoods do. No matter the age of your home, adding a tornado shelter inside your house or on your property is a good way to be prepared for potential severe weather. For more information about tornado safety and preparation, visit the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management’s site at ok.gov/oem. A GUIDE TO WEATHER WATCHES AND WARNINGS If you aren’t familiar with the categories for severe weather, watching a meteorology report can be a little confusing. Here is a no-frills guide to severe weather reporting: SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH What it means: The potential exists for the development of thunderstorms that might produce large hail and/or damaging winds. What to do: Go about your normal activities, but be aware of the weather. Listen to the National Weather Service’s weather radio or local stations for further weather updates.
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARN I NG
Photo by Andrew G.
What it means: A severe thunderstorm – meaning a storm with large hail and/or damaging winds – is occurring or is imminent.
OKLAHOMA CITY’S CLIMATE IS ENJOYABLY AVERAGE WITH SUNNY AND WARM SUMMERS, BRIGHT AND COLD WINTERS AND CRISP AUTUMNS.
What to do: Move indoors or to a place of safety.
TORNADO WATCH What it means: Conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms to form, and these storms may be capable of producing a tornado. What to do: Go about your normal activities, but be aware of the weather. Listen to the National Weather Service’s weather radio or local stations for further weather updates.
34 Oklahoma City Official Welcome Guide 2024
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