Severe Weather Awareness Week: Severe thunderstorms
Meteorologist Jennifer Schack offers tips to stay safe
Nearly two dozen severe thunderstorm warnings were issued in Hamilton County alone in 2015.
This week, the WLWT team of meteorologists is pairing up with the Hamilton County Emergency Management Office for Severe Weather Awareness Week.
Tuesday's topic is severe thunderstorms.
Lightning, high wind, heavy rain and large hail all pose a threat to the region.
A severe thunderstorm is defined as a storm producing hail at least 1 inch in diameter and/or winds of 58 mph or greater.
Lightning is not part of the definition of a severe thunderstorm, but can cause extreme damage as well.
When your area is under a severe thunderstorm warning, go to the interior of the building. Do not stand near windows that may get shattered from flying debris.
In intense lightning storms, it is also recommended to not use electrical equipment plugged into outlets in the event that your home is struck.
Running water can also be dangerous when lightning strikes a home.
Watch Monday's topic: 'Watches v. Warnings'
As meteorologists, tracking storms on radar is an important part of storm analysis and forecasting, but ground confirmation and reports from the public are vital for severe thunderstorm coverage.
Remember: When making a weather report, use #WLWT in both Facebook and Twitter. Another important resource to follow for severe weather information and safety is the Hamilton County Emergency Operations Center. Follow it on Twitter @HCEMA.
A forum to discuss hazards and threats to Hamilton County will take place at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday. Learn more by clicking here.
The National Weather Service also provides spotter training courses. Click here for the list of classes available in the Greater Cincinnati region.