Monsoon Safety Awareness Week: Staying Alert

The summer weather cycle that affects the borderland has many names — the North American Monsoon, the Mexican Monsoon, even the Arizona Monsoon.

No matter what you call it, monsoon season means flooding rains, blistering heat, howling winds and dangerous lightning.

Staying ahead of these weather hazards means staying up to date with the latest weather information, and knowing what different alerts mean.

ABC-7 asked El Pasoans what the difference is between a tornado watch and a tornado warning.

Some, like UTEP student Ernesto Reyes, had a vague idea of the different alerts.

“I don’t know about the watch, but a tornado warning is, like, giving alerts about a possible tornado,” said Reyes.

Others, like UTEP sophomore Priscilla Calderon, weren’t aware of the difference.

“I don’t know really,” said Calderon.

Not knowing the difference between various alerts can mean the difference between life and death when severe weather strikes, since each alert requires a different action.

According to the National Weather Service experts, a watch means severe weather is possible during the next few hours, while a warning means that severe weather has been observed, or is expected soon.

When watches are issued, it’s best to have a plan depending on the threat issued in case storms do develop.

For instance, in a tornado watch, it is best to review your emergency plans and have an emergency safety kit on hand with copies of important documents, medications and other items.

For a more complete list of what should be in your emergency kit, click on this link.

When a warning is issued, immediate action is recommended.

With all of the different types of watches and warnings, how do you know which action to take?

“Usually when the weather service issue a watch or a warning we will specify the specific danger and also the precautions you should take,” said National Weather Service meteorologist Joe Rogash.

Watches are only issued by the National Weather Service a few hours in advance of threatening weather.

ABC-7 goes one step further by issuing our own First Alert. ABC-7 issues a First Alert to alert viewers, often days in advance, of the possibility of severe weather. When the alert has been issued, newscasts as well as the KVIA.com will keep you updated on the latest weather developments.

The best way to protect yourself when severe weather threatens is to stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts.

One of the easiest ways to do this is by purchasing a NOAA weather radio, which can be programmed to alert you of watches and warnings in your area. Many of these radios can be purchased for less than $30 at area electronics stores.

Monsoon season officially begins June 15th.