Johns Creek, Georgia, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, bringing with it a variety of weather conditions. From the warmth of summer to the chill of winter, residents need to be prepared for everything from thunderstorms and lightning to the potential for flooding, excessive heat, and even winter storms. Understanding the difference between weather watches and warnings, and knowing the safety measures in place, is crucial for protecting yourself and your family in Johns Creek.
Understanding Weather Watches and Warnings
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides essential guidance on understanding weather alerts. It’s important to differentiate between a weather “watch” and a “warning”.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch vs. Warning
A severe thunderstorm watch indicates that conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms to develop in the Johns Creek area. This means there is a potential for storms that could produce large hail and damaging winds. During a watch, it’s advisable to stay informed by monitoring weather updates on the radio, internet, or TV, and be prepared to take action if a warning is issued. You can continue with your normal activities but remain vigilant.
A severe thunderstorm warning, on the other hand, means a severe thunderstorm is currently occurring or is imminent in Johns Creek, often indicated by Doppler radar. When a warning is issued, it’s time to take immediate action and seek shelter indoors in a safe location to protect yourself from the storm’s dangers.
Tornado Watch vs. Warning
Similarly, a tornado watch means that conditions are conducive for tornadoes to form, often within severe thunderstorms. Like a severe thunderstorm watch, a tornado watch is a signal to be alert and monitor for updates. Tornadoes are possible, so having a plan and staying informed is key.
A tornado warning is a more urgent alert. It signifies that a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar in the Johns Creek area. When a tornado warning is issued, immediate action is necessary. Seek shelter immediately in a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
Lightning Safety Measures in Johns Creek Parks
Johns Creek prioritizes the safety of its residents, especially in public spaces like parks. To enhance lightning safety, Johns Creek parks such as Ocee and Newtown Park are equipped with advanced lightning prediction devices and sirens.
These devices are designed to monitor electrostatic energy in the atmosphere up to 15 miles away. They assess the likelihood of lightning strikes within a 2-mile radius of the park. If conditions become favorable for lightning, a siren will sound for 15 seconds, accompanied by a flashing strobe light. These sirens may sound periodically if threatening conditions persist. When the threat has passed, an all-clear signal of three five-second siren blasts will sound. These systems provide Johns Creek park visitors with valuable advanced warning of potential lightning dangers, allowing them to take necessary precautions.
FALCON Emergency Alert System
For broader emergency notifications, Fulton County, including Johns Creek, utilizes the FALCON system. FALCON is a telephone communication service designed to quickly disseminate crucial information to residents, businesses, and county employees during emergencies.
This system is used to notify citizens about various emergency situations, including severe weather events, flash flood warnings, and tornado warnings, among other critical alerts. Residents of Johns Creek are encouraged to register and ensure their contact information is up-to-date within the FALCON system. This proactive step ensures you will receive timely and potentially life-saving alerts directly to your phone, helping you stay informed and safe during emergencies in Johns Creek.
Sign up for FALCON emergency alerts
By understanding these weather safety measures and utilizing the resources available in Johns Creek, residents can better protect themselves and their families throughout the year, no matter the season. Staying informed and prepared is the best way to navigate the diverse weather conditions of Johns Creek.
