This is the basic severe thunderstorm criteria. Take shelter if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued for your location and be aware of any flying debris or hail. 

This is an upgrade to a standard severe thunderstorm warning that is issued by the NWS when the criteria above is met by an active severe thunderstorm. Be aware that winds at these speeds can cause damage comparable to a weak tornado!

This is the highest warning level a severe thunderstorm can have. Destructive severe thunderstorms should be taken as seriously as a tornado! This type of warning will also cause a wireless emergency alert to be issued to any cell phone within the warning. These storms are potentially very dangerous, so head to a sturdy structure or your tornado safe place if a destructive warning is issued!

This can be issued up to 72 hours in advance if ingredients for flooding are present. These ingredients could include: excessive rainfall, saturated ground, pour drainage, etc. 

This is issued when active flooding is imminent or occurring. Usually occurs over a longer period of time than a flash flood. 

A flash flood warning is issued when there is a rapid rise in water vs a flood warning which is issued when there is a general threat of rising water over several hours. Flash floods can occur as quickly as several minutes and can last for several hours. A flash flood emergency is issued by the NWS when extreme rainfall has caused a flash flood that is particularly dangerous.

The most deadly severe weather threat for Athens County is flooding. Areas at most risk are valleys and other low-lying areas, anywhere along a river or stream, or in areas with poor drainage. Most flood deaths are associated with people attempting to drive through floods. It only takes 6 inches of water to sweep a grown adult off of their feet, and only 1 foot of water to sweep a vehicle away. Roads are also at risk of being washed away suddenly by flood waters, which is why it is strongly recommended to turn around and never attempt to drive through any flood waters.

A heat advisory will be issued by the NWS when the forecasted heat increases the risk for heat-related illnesses. It is advised to exercise caution. While not as extreme as an Extreme Heat Warning, an advisory can still cause hazardous impacts to human health; especially to the more vulnerable community. 

Typically issued up to 72 hours in advance when extreme heat is imminent in the short-term forecast. Make sure to be prepared and reschedule any outdoor activities.

This is typically issued at least 24 hours in advance when extreme heat is expected to be dangerous to human health. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are more at risk when outdoors for long periods of time. 

A blizzard is imminent or occurring with the following conditions: 

1. Sustained wind or frequent gusts of 35 mph or higher AND

2. visibility less than 1/4 mile in snow and/or blowing snow for 3 hours or longer. 

*Disclaimer: A blizzard does not mean there will be a lot of heavy snowfall. 

Damaging ice accumulations of 1/4" or more!

Ice storms typically occur when freezing rain is imminent and can cause hazardous travel impacts, power outages, etc. if accumulations reach warning criteria. 

• Snow squalls reducing the visibility to 1/4 mile or less in snow with sub-freezing ambient road temperatures OR

• Plunging temperatures behind an arctic front sufficient to produce flash freezes, along with a significant reduction in visibility from falling and/or blowing snow.