Severe Storms Possible Across Carolinas: How To Track Active Vs. Expired Weather Alerts

Henrik Larsen

4 min read

Post on May 31, 2025

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Understanding Weather Alert Systems in the Carolinas

The National Weather Service (NWS) issues several types of weather alerts to warn the public about impending hazardous weather. Understanding these alerts is the first step in effectively tracking severe weather in the Carolinas. These alerts are designed to give you enough time to take protective action.

• Tornado Warning: This indicates a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take immediate action to seek shelter. This is the most serious alert.
• Severe Thunderstorm Warning: This means severe thunderstorms producing large hail and/or damaging winds are happening in your area. Take protective measures immediately.
• Flash Flood Warning: This means a flash flood is happening. Seek higher ground immediately. Never drive through flooded areas.
• Winter Storm Warning: Significant amounts of snow, sleet, or ice are expected. Be prepared for difficult travel conditions.
• Blizzard Warning: Severe winter storms with sustained winds of 35 mph or greater and considerable falling or blowing snow, reducing visibility significantly for an extended period.

For Carolina weather information, rely on multiple sources for redundancy:

• National Weather Service (NWS) Website: Check the NWS website for forecasts and current alerts specific to your location.
• NOAA Weather Radio App: This free app provides 24/7 weather alerts directly from the NWS.
• Local News Channels: Local news channels offer up-to-the-minute weather reports and alert updates.

Identifying Active vs. Expired Weather Alerts

Weather alerts are disseminated through various channels: wireless emergency alerts (WEA) on your smartphone, dedicated weather apps, television and radio broadcasts. It's crucial to understand how to identify active versus expired alerts.

Alerts are often color-coded within apps and on websites. Active warnings are usually displayed prominently, often in red or orange, and clearly indicate "Warning in effect," "Alert in effect," or similar phrasing. Expired alerts, however, will typically show a status like "Warning expired," "Advisory ended," or be presented in a less visually prominent manner, often grayed out or with a timestamp indicating the alert's termination.

• Active Alert Example: "Severe Thunderstorm Warning for [County] until [Time]. Large hail and damaging winds expected."
• Expired Alert Example: "Severe Thunderstorm Warning for [County] expired at [Time]."

Receiving multiple alerts for the same event doesn't necessarily indicate a problem. Alerts can be updated and extended as the situation evolves. Pay close attention to the timing and status indicators.

Best Practices for Tracking Severe Weather in the Carolinas

Effective severe weather tracking relies on preparedness and multiple alert sources.

• Multiple Alert Methods: Utilize your smartphone, NOAA Weather Radio, and local news for comprehensive coverage.
• Family Communication Plan: Establish a plan to check in with family members during severe weather events.
• Severe Weather Actions:
  • When a severe weather alert is issued, immediately seek shelter in a sturdy building, away from windows.
  • Stay informed by monitoring weather updates.
  • Check on vulnerable neighbors.
• Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies like water, food, first-aid supplies, flashlights, and batteries. Visit ready.gov for comprehensive guidance.

Utilizing Technology for Accurate Weather Tracking

Weather apps offer powerful features for tracking severe weather alerts.

• Weather Apps: Apps like the Weather Channel app, AccuWeather, and the NOAA Weather app provide detailed forecasts, radar imagery, and customizable alerts.
• Customizable Alerts: Set location-specific alerts for the types of weather events that concern you most.
• Source Reliability: Always verify information from multiple reputable sources, particularly during severe weather events.

Staying Safe During Severe Storms in the Carolinas

Understanding the different alert types, recognizing active vs. expired alerts, and employing multiple methods for receiving warnings are critical for staying safe during severe storms in the Carolinas. Preparedness, including a family communication plan and an emergency kit, is paramount.

Don't wait for a severe storm to hit – proactively track severe weather alerts today and protect yourself and your family. Learn how to effectively monitor active alerts and distinguish them from expired warnings to prepare for and mitigate the impact of severe storms across the Carolinas. Stay informed and stay safe!