Watches and Warnings

 This is the summer of wildfires and floods, and tornadoes!  

As I write this, on July 16, tornado watches have been issued for parts of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York and Rhode Island until 3 PM EDT.

In the Chicago area, on July12,  there were watches and warnings. According to the National Weather Service, there were at least 11 confirmed tornadoes on the evening of July 12.  Fortunately, there are no reported casualties or injuries.

What is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning?

---  A tornado WATCH  means there are conditions that could produce tornadoes.   

Pay attention, and be prepared. 

--- A tornado WARNING  means a tornado has been spotted in the area.   

Take shelter immediately.  Go down to the basement, if you have one.  Or an interior room, away from windows.

 Have multiple ways to receive weather updates---TV, a weather radio,  regular radio, a warning on your phone. In spite of current problems, Twitter is a good way to receive the latest information from the National Weather Service, and @NWSTornado.  

Have your emergency bag ready, just in case. This includes important papers,  prescription drugs,  extra batteries, a flashlight.  Food and water.  Bring a  hoodie, just in case.  Wear sturdy shoes like sneakers--not flip-flops.  

Don't forget your pets!  They should have food and water,  too.  Keep a  leash or a carrier handy. 

Make sure your phone is charged. And/or if you have a landline,  have an outlet to plug it in.  Landlines are still a reliable way to stay connected. 

Even if you don't have to face an actual tornado or severe weather situation, having a plan and being prepared will get you thinking about what's important to you.  Family photos? The book you're currently reading? Your mother's pin?  Your cat's favorite cat toys?  

Like the perversity of tornadic winds,  people will also take the strangest things. Red lipstick. A treasured baseball card.  For me, it's my old  black cashmere sweater, whatever the weather.