Severe thunderstorms are often associated with heavy rain and frequent lightning, but not every storm with these features qualifies as severe, according to weather experts.
Meteorologists follow specific criteria when issuing severe thunderstorm warnings. These include wind gusts of 58 miles per hour or higher, hail one inch or larger in diameter, or a tornado.
Understanding these standards helps the public recognize when a storm poses a significant threat and requires caution. Weather agencies emphasize paying attention to official alerts during storm events.
Officials advise staying indoors and monitoring weather updates when a severe thunderstorm warning is in effect, to stay safe from potential hazards.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
