Because the region’s hard clay soil and water table make basements rare in newer homes, many builders design homes so a shelter can be added later. Older homes in historic neighborhoods may have basements. Whatever your home’s age, adding a tornado shelter indoors or on your property is a smart step. For official guidance and resources, visit the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management’s site at ok.gov/oem. A GUIDE TO WEATHER WATCHES AND WARN I NGS If you’re new to OKC, local weather alerts can seem confusing. Here’s an easy-to- follow guide to what those alerts mean and what you should do when you hear them. SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH What it means: Conditions could support storms with large hail or damaging winds.
What to do: Carry on with your day but stay alert. Monitor updates from the National Weather Service or local media.
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING What it means: A storm with large hail or strong winds is occurring or imminent.
What to do: Go indoors and keep away from windows. Find a safe interior space until the threat passes.
TORNADO WATCH What it means: Weather conditions may allow tornadoes to form.
What to do: Stay alert. Continue normal activities but follow updates via National Weather Service’s weather radio or local news. PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION (PDS) TORNADO WATCH What it means: The risk is higher than usual for multiple strong or violent tornadoes. These watches are rare but serious. What to do: Be extra vigilant. Closely monitor weather updates and follow updates via National Weather Service’s weather radio or local news. Have a safety plan in place in case you must seek shelter. TORNADO WARNING What it means: A tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. A tornado siren will likely be sounded, meaning the twister is close by. What to do: Seek shelter immediately. Go to a basement, storm shelter or the lowest interior room without windows. If you're in a car, move to a sturdy building. Vehicles are unsafe during tornadoes.
Photo by Andrew G.
OKLAHOMA CITY'S CLIMATE IS ENJOYABLY AVERAGE WITH SUNNY AND WARM SUMMERS, BRIGHT AND COLD WINTERS AND CRISP AUTUMNS.
34 Oklahoma City Official Welcome Guide
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