Severe Storm Alerts: Know The Difference Between Active And Expired In The Carolinas

Aria Freeman

4 min read

Post on May 31, 2025

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Understanding Active Severe Storm Alerts in the Carolinas

Active weather alerts signify an imminent threat; the severe weather event is happening now or is about to. These are not warnings to be ignored. Real-time alerts demand immediate action to protect your life and property.

Types of Active Alerts:

• Severe Thunderstorm Warnings: These alerts indicate that severe thunderstorms producing large hail (one inch in diameter or larger) and/or damaging winds (58 mph or greater) are happening in your area. Tornadoes are also possible with severe thunderstorms, so always remain vigilant.

• Tornado Warnings: This is the most serious warning. A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take immediate action; this signifies immediate danger to life and property. Seek shelter immediately.

• Flash Flood Warnings: Flash floods are a dangerous and rapidly developing threat. This warning means flooding is already occurring or is imminent. Never attempt to drive through floodwaters; they are often deeper and faster-moving than they appear.

How to Receive Active Alerts:

• NOAA Weather Radio: A NOAA Weather Radio with Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) technology is a reliable source for receiving immediate warnings.

• Weather Apps: Popular weather apps like AccuWeather, The Weather Channel, and WeatherBug provide real-time alerts tailored to your location. Make sure your location settings are accurate.

• Local News: Television and radio news stations provide critical weather updates and live coverage during severe weather events.

What Actions to Take During an Active Alert:

The actions you take depend on the type of alert:

• Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Move indoors to a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outside and cannot reach shelter, find a low-lying area and protect yourself from flying debris.

• Tornado Warning: Go immediately to a designated safe room, basement, or an interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building. Get under heavy furniture if possible. Avoid windows and outside walls.

• Flash Flood Warning: Move to higher ground immediately. Never drive through floodwaters. If you are trapped in a vehicle, abandon it and seek higher ground.

Recognizing Expired Severe Storm Alerts in the Carolinas

Expired weather alerts indicate that the severe weather threat has passed, been cancelled, or was not verified. While the immediate danger has subsided, it's crucial to understand why alerts expire and what steps to take afterward.

Why Alerts Expire:

• Storm Dissipation: The severe weather system has weakened or moved out of the area.

• Threat Overestimated: The initial prediction of severe weather was overly cautious.

• False Alarm: The initial radar indication or sighting was not confirmed.

How to Identify Expired Alerts:

Most weather apps and websites clearly mark alerts as "expired" or "cancelled." News updates will also reflect the change in status. Look for visual cues within the app or on the news indicating the alert's expiration.

Importance of Checking for Updated Alerts:

Even after an alert expires, it's essential to check for updated warnings. Conditions can change rapidly, and new threats may develop.

What Actions to Take After an Expired Alert:

• Assess any damage to your property and belongings.

• Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly or those with special needs.

• Report damage to local authorities as needed.

Resources for Severe Storm Alerts in the Carolinas

Reliable information is your best defense. Utilize multiple resources to stay informed about severe weather in the Carolinas.

• National Weather Service (NWS): The NWS website (weather.gov) and mobile app provide official forecasts, watches, warnings, and detailed information about severe weather.

• Reliable Weather Apps: AccuWeather, The Weather Channel, and WeatherBug are examples of reputable apps offering real-time alerts and forecasts.

• NOAA Weather Radio: A dedicated NOAA Weather Radio offers continuous weather updates and alerts, even during power outages.

• Local News Channels: Local news stations provide valuable on-the-ground reporting and updates during severe weather events.

• Government Emergency Alerts: Sign up for emergency alerts through your county or municipality's website.

Conclusion

Knowing the difference between active and expired severe storm alerts in the Carolinas is crucial for your safety and preparedness. Staying informed through multiple reliable sources and taking immediate action during active alerts can significantly reduce the risk of harm during severe weather events. Stay informed about severe storm alerts in the Carolinas by utilizing multiple resources. Download a weather app, sign up for emergency alerts, and tune into your local news for up-to-date information on active and expired severe storm alerts. Don't wait—prepare for severe weather today!