From March 1-7, 2020 the National Weather Service initiates their campaign to prepare us all for spring severe storms. At WeatherNation, we're getting you ready by educating our viewers on all of the threats severe weather can bring. Each day we'll highlight different aspects of thunderstorms and what you need to know to stay safe.

TORNADOES

MONDAY MARCH 2, 2020

We are kicking things off by telling you everything you need to know about tornadoes and tornado safety. John Van Pelt details different ways to stay safe when a Tornado Watch or Warning is issued. https://youtu.be/-chfprRaPvI   Tornadoes are rated by the Enhanced Fujita Scale. Meteorologist Shelly Lindblade explains how the National Weather Service determines these ratings. https://youtu.be/uG_DRiyYccU   Meteorologist Joe Astolfi highlights the safest places to be during a tornado warning. https://youtu.be/YwveXavh9eI   Landspouts may be small, but they can pack a big punch. Meteorologist Chris Bianchi explains. https://youtu.be/tYnhv_FkbDs

HAIL AND WIND

TUESDAY MARCH 3, 2020

Three things qualify a thunderstorm as severe. Yesterday, we talked about tornadoes. Today, we will focus on damaging winds and large hail. How is hail measured? We break it down for you and show what everyday objects correspond with a certain hail size. https://youtu.be/i-_fIlQrrK8   When we talk about a severe threat of damaging, straight line winds, here's what you need you know with Meteorologist Meredith Garofalo. https://youtu.be/ey-032W0t3c   Hail can be the costliest part of thunderstorm damage. Meteorologist Ben Reppert breaks it down by the numbers. https://youtu.be/QfdHz5hVHYI   Meteorologist Karissa Klos explains what it takes for hail stones to form and grow within a thunderstorm. https://youtu.be/aHHSdD1aOso  

FLOODING

WEDNESDAY MARCH 4, 2020

In addition to hail, wind and tornadoes, flooding often accompanies spring thunderstorms. River flooding, areal flooding, and flash flooding: different types of one of the deadliest natural disasters in the United States. Meteorologist Meredith Garofalo explains the difference between the three. https://youtu.be/_upIh4fCMxs   Flooding isn't just about rising water. Meteorologist Steve Glazier tells us about the various dangers that flood waters can bring. https://youtu.be/2Id8FGi5w8g   Flooding is the second biggest weather related killer in the U.S. John Van Pelt highlights ways to stay safe during heavy rain and flooding events. https://youtu.be/f1SmTiBMw9U   Meteorologist Chris Bianchi talks with Dr. Greg Carbin about his research into heavy precipitation and flooding events over the last five years. https://youtu.be/cEG-QwLFSKI  

THUNDERSTORMS

THURSDAY MARCH 5, 2020

Whether general or severe, thunderstorms can pose a threat to life and property. We are highlighting all facets of this powerful spring phenomenon. John Van Pelt walks us through the basics of lightning safety while debunking some common lightning myths along the way. https://youtu.be/dCXmPOpbO94   When severe weather threatens, it's important to understand the different alerts. Meteorologist Steve Glazier breaks down the difference between a WATCH and a WARNING. https://youtu.be/bXWZdKVoII8   When severe weather strikes, it's important to be prepared. John Van Pelt helps get you ready. https://youtu.be/9106r1HDl2k   Think lightning won't strike the same place twice? Think again! Meteorologist Rob Bradley sets the record straight on misconceptions about lightning. https://youtu.be/CM_CNbkpyRg   Nocturnal severe thunderstorms present a unique, and elevated danger. Meteorologist Meredith Garofalo explains. https://youtu.be/_1E7aTHO6nQ  

FORECASTING SEVERE STORMS

FRIDAY MARCH 6, 2020

We are giving you some insight on how we forecast for severe weather. Everything from climatology to preparation, here is what you need to look for in the coming months. The Storm Prediction Center issued various threat levels in advance of severe weather around the country. Learn more about each threat level and what it means when your area is placed in the risk. https://youtu.be/_lunoaofhN0   Meteorologist Steve Glazier explains where and when severe storms are most likely during spring. https://youtu.be/Wa0u_otAWAc   Shear, lift, instability and moisture. SLIM is a helpful acronym to remember what storms need to develop. Meteorologist Karissa Klos breaks down the details. https://youtu.be/FvxmoR9PguQ   There are two hot spots in the U.S. for tornado activity, Dixie Alley and Tornado Alley. Meteorologist Chris Bianchi highlights the similarities and differences between the two. https://youtu.be/xVkCw2swTsE   There are many things you can do to help your family get ready for severe weather season. Meteorologist Patrick Crawford walks us through a helpful checklist for Severe Weather Awareness Week. https://youtu.be/ZmrTp0p0Fik