202 E. Border Street
Office of Emergency Management Suite
Arlington, TX 76010
Severe Thunderstorm
Severe Thunderstorms
Severe thunderstorms are defined as:
- Winds of 58 mph or higher and/or;
- Hail 1 inch in diameter or larger.
Hail that is an inch or larger can damage property such as plants, roofs, and vehicles. Severe thunderstorms can also produce tornadoes and flash flooding. Wind gusts over 58 miles an hour can break off large branches and knock over trees or cause structural damage to trees. Some severe storms can produce hail larger than softballs or winds over 100 miles per hour, so it is important to pay attention to the weather so you will know when severe weather is possible and be prepared for severe weather in your area.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
- A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued when either a severe thunderstorm is detected by a weather radar or a spotter reports hail one inch or larger in diameter and/or winds equal or exceeding 58 miles an hour.
Protective Actions
- Adhere to NWS watches and warnings.
- Adhere to UTA Campus Emergency Notifications.
- Seek shelter inside a sturdy building immediately, staying away from windows if possible.
- If indoor shelter is not available, shelter in a hardtop vehicle with the windows up.
- If someone is struck by lightning, call UTA Police Dispatch emergency line at 817-272-3003 or 9-1-1 immediately.