This week is Minnesota Severe Weather Awareness Week, and the National Weather Service-Twin Cities has designated a daily topic each day of the week. Tuesday's topic is severe weather warnings.

• Watches are issued “when conditions are favorable for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms or flash floods.” If you are in a watch area, you may continue with your normal activities but should keep an eye out for changes.
• Warnings are issued “when severe weather has been reported or is imminent.” Seek shelter immediately if you are in or near the path of the storm. Warnings are issued by county and city names.
• A Weather Radio can be a good way to stay up-to-date on weather conditions. The radios will alert you when the National Weather Service issues weather watches and warnings.

Source: Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s Severe Weather Awareness Week Web site

Click here for a link to Monday's topic: Thunderstorms, lightning, hail, straight-line winds http://www.independentreview.net/news/weather/severe-weather-week-thunde...