National Weather Service News

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As of today, the NWS will issue severe thunderstorm warnings when thunderstorm winds are expected to reach 50 knots (58 mph or more) and/or hail of one inch in diameter or larger is expected to fall.  Previously, the hail threshold was 3/4th of an inch.  I agree with this change -- there have been too many severe thunderstorm warnings in the past.

They are also increasing the "lead time" for tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings, meaning they will be issued earlier when there is a threat to the U.S. coast.  Read all about it here.

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