Tornado Watch Details
The National Weather Service in Mount Holly has announced a Tornado Watch effective from 11:30 AM on Monday, March 16, until 7:00 PM EDT. This alert encompasses a significant area across the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, affecting four states.
Affected Areas
Where the Watch Is in Effect
Pennsylvania: The counties impacted include Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Delaware, Lehigh, Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, and Philadelphia. Major cities in this area are Philadelphia, Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Reading, Doylestown, Norristown, Stroudsburg, Jim Thorpe, West Chester, and Media.
New Jersey: The watch covers Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Salem, Somerset, Sussex, and Warren counties. Key cities include Trenton, Camden, Cherry Hill, Atlantic City, Toms River, New Brunswick, Freehold, Morristown, Edison, East Brunswick, and Ocean City.
Delaware: Kent, New Castle, and Sussex counties are included, with Dover and Wilmington being notable cities.
Maryland: Caroline, Kent, Queen Anne's, and Talbot counties are under watch, including Centreville, Chestertown, Denton, and Easton.
Understanding Watches and Warnings
Watch vs Warning: Key Differences
A tornado watch indicates that conditions are ripe for tornado formation, although one may not be occurring at the moment. Factors such as strong wind shear, atmospheric instability, and lift are present in the area. It is crucial to have multiple sources for weather updates and a safety plan ready in case the situation worsens. Conversely, a tornado warning signifies that a tornado is either forming or has been confirmed on the ground, necessitating immediate shelter. There are two types of warnings: radar-indicated, where rotation is detected, and confirmed, where a tornado has been visually spotted or tracked via radar.
Safety Tips During a Tornado
How to Stay Safe If a Tornado Develops
Seek shelter in the lowest part of a building, ideally a basement, and put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Avoid windows, as they can shatter during a tornado. It's important to note that being at a higher elevation or near water does not provide safety, as tornadoes can traverse hills and bodies of water without losing speed.
If You're Driving
Do not attempt to outrun a tornado in your vehicle, as they can change direction rapidly. If you receive a warning while driving, find a sturdy building to take shelter in. Avoid seeking refuge under highway overpasses, as they can create dangerous wind tunnels. If no buildings are available, exit your vehicle, find a low-lying area, lie flat, and cover your head with your arms.