Spring Storm Preparedness

As we enter the month of March, signs of spring are finally beginning to show. Longer days, warmer temperatures, more people spending time outdoors...but also an increase in severe weather. The National Weather Service calls the months of March through May spring severe weather season; a time when thunderstorms, extremely high winds, and other severe weather can be stronger and more consistent. Severe weather during any season can develop quickly, making preparation key. Whether you’re a Tempest owner or just looking for better ways to stay weather-aware this season, here’s a few things to keep in mind to help you stay ahead of spring storms. 

KNOW THE EARLY SIGNS OF SEVERE WEATHER

Spring storms are known for their ability to develop in the blink of an eye, but there are early indicators you can be on the lookout for: 

• Rapid drops in barometric pressure or temperature: can signal storm development.
• Increased wind speeds & sudden shifts: often indicate an approaching front.
• Rising humidity & dew point: can fuel storm intensity.

There’s also visual signals of an incoming storm, like darkening skies, the formation or change in appearance of clouds, or even seeing lightning or rainfall at a distance. Keeping an eye on your local forecast can also provide valuable insight into potential storm activity. Weather models and expert predictions can help you anticipate severe weather before you notice the physical signs.

For Tempest Owners: Your Tempest Weather System provides real-time, hyper-local readings so you can track pressure, wind, and humidity shifts before a storm arrives. Check your dashboard to see trends as they develop.

GET LIGHTNING ALERTS BEFORE THE FIRST STRIKE

Lightning is one of the biggest dangers of spring storms, and it can even strike before the rain begins.

• The Tempest Weather System detects lightning up to 25 miles away, giving you an early warning before the first strike reaches your area.
• If you don’t have a personal lightning detector, follow the 30-30 rule: If you hear thunder within 30 seconds of seeing lightning, take cover immediately.

HIGH WINDS AND TORNADO RISKS: WHAT TO WATCH FOR

Severe thunderstorms can bring damaging winds and even tornadoes. Here’s what to monitor:

• Sudden increases in wind speed: gusts over 40 mph can signal an approaching storm.
• Rotating cloud formations: a warning sign for tornado activity.
• Temperature and pressure changes: a fast drop in pressure may indicate instability in the atmosphere.

For Tempest Owners: Enable high wind alerts in your Tempest app to receive instant notifications when conditions become hazardous.

AUTOMATE STORM SAFETY WITH SMART HOME INTEGRATIONS

Technology can help you prepare for storms before they hit. With Tempest + IFTTT and other integrations, you can automate storm readiness and take more action faster at a time it matters most:

• Close smart shutters when wind speeds rise.
• Turn on outdoor lights when storms approach.
• Pause irrigation systems when rain is detected.
  

Small automations like these can make a big difference in protecting your home and keeping your family safe when severe weather strikes.

The best way to stay safe during severe weather is to have multiple sources of information.

• Sign up for local emergency alerts and always have a backup way to receive warnings.
• If you own a Tempest, check your app for real-time storm data.
• Follow weather experts and official agencies for up-to-date storm tracking.

Severe weather can develop quickly, but with the right tools and awareness, you can stay ahead of the storm. By recognizing early warning signs, using smart technology, and staying connected to reliable forecasts, you can make informed decisions to protect your home and loved ones. Preparation is key, and every step you take now can help you weather the storm when it matters most.