Weather Warning !!!!!

Strong Storms, Flash Flood/Tornado Watch for Vermont today
WATERBURY – The National Weather Service is warning of strong thunderstorms and has issued a Tornado Watch and Flash Flood Watch for all of Vermont his afternoon and evening (Tornado Watch Expires at 9 p.m.) Areas of the state will see strong winds, heavy downpours, hail, and a slight possibly of tornadoes.

Downpours will likely cause rivers to rise and lead to flash flooding. If you are near a river or stream and water rises toward your location, leave immediately. A weather Watch means conditions are possible, but not imminent.

Those who experience strong winds or tornadoes should take steps to protect themselves. Please visit http://www.ready.gov/tornadoes for detailed information. As an overview:

Be alert to changing weather conditions. Look for approaching storms.
Look for the following danger signs:
Dark, often greenish sky
Large hail
A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
Loud roar, similar to a freight train.
If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.
Go to a pre-designated shelter area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck.

Weather updates can be found on the National Weather Service web site: http://www.weather.gov/btv/.

Vermont Emergency Management will also post updates on its Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/vermontemergencymanagement.