Follow essential safety measures for navigating a tornado watch in New England. Stay safe with expert advice on alerts, sheltering, and more during severe weather conditions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a tornado watch spanning parts of Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont, effective from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thunderstorms are predicted to develop between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., progressing southeastward until approximately 9 p.m. These storms carry risks such as damaging winds exceeding 70 mph, isolated tornadoes, large hail, and potential flash flooding. New Hampshire faces a specific 10% risk of tornadoes on Sunday.
Director Robert Buxton of the New Hampshire Department of Safety’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) stresses readiness. Residents should finalize their family emergency plans and ensure their emergency kits are stocked with essential documents, supplies, and contact information. Immediate action in the event of flooding is critical, with reminders to avoid flooded roads.
In Vermont, the NWS issues tornado warnings infrequently but emphasizes their critical nature. Currently, Vermont is under a tornado watch until 8 p.m., with earlier warnings for specific counties having since weakened. Meteorologist Marlon Verasamy advises seeking shelter in basements or interior rooms during tornado warnings, due to the state’s annual tornado occurrence.
Both states urge residents to stay informed through reliable sources like NWS, local news, and emergency apps. Essential preparations include securing outdoor items and staying updated via Unitil’s various communication channels for potential power outages. For ongoing updates and safety guidelines, residents can visit ReadyNH.gov and follow New Hampshire Homeland Security and Emergency Management on social media.