Storm Prediction Center facts for kids
The logo of the Storm Prediction Center.
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| Agency overview | |
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| Formed | October 1995 |
| Preceding agencies |
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| Jurisdiction | Federal government of the United States |
| Headquarters | Norman, Oklahoma |
| Employees | 43 |
| Agency executive |
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| Parent agency | National Centers for Environmental Prediction |
The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) is a special office in Norman, Oklahoma. It is part of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction. The SPC's main job is to forecast dangerous weather. This includes things like tornadoes, big thunderstorms, and strong winds. They help people across the United States stay safe from severe weather.
Contents
What is the Storm Prediction Center?
The Storm Prediction Center is like a weather detective agency. Their experts watch the sky and weather patterns very closely. They use advanced tools and computers to predict when and where severe weather might happen. This helps local weather offices and the public prepare.
How They Help Us Stay Safe
The SPC issues different kinds of forecasts. These forecasts warn people about potential dangers. This early warning gives communities time to get ready. It helps people protect themselves and their property. For example, if a tornado is possible, people can find shelter.
Different Types of Forecasts
The SPC creates several types of weather outlooks and discussions. Each one helps people understand the risk of severe weather. They cover different timeframes, from a few hours to a few days ahead.
Tornado and Thunderstorm Outlooks
The SPC issues "Convective Outlooks." These maps show areas where severe thunderstorms are expected. They tell you if there's a risk of large hail, damaging winds, or tornadoes.
- Day 1 Outlooks: These are issued several times a day. They show where severe weather is likely in the next 24 hours.
- Probabilistic Maps: These maps show the chance, or probability, of a tornado forming. They might show a 10% chance of a strong tornado within 25 miles of a spot.
Special Weather Discussions
Sometimes, the SPC issues "Mesoscale Discussions." These are shorter, more detailed forecasts. They focus on smaller areas where severe weather is developing. They help local weather forecasters understand what's happening right now. They also issue "Tornado Watches" and "Severe Thunderstorm Watches." A watch means conditions are right for severe weather to happen.
Fire Weather Forecasts
The SPC also forecasts conditions that could lead to wildfires. They issue "Fire Weather Outlooks." These outlooks highlight areas where dry conditions and strong winds could cause fires to spread quickly. This helps firefighters and communities prepare for fire risks.
Images for kids
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Day 1 Convective Outlook and Probabilistic maps issued by the Storm Prediction Center during a tornado outbreak on April 7, 2006. The top map indicates the risk of general severe weather. The bottom map shows the risk percentage of a tornado forming within 25 miles (40 km) of any point. The hatched area indicates a 10% or greater risk of an F2 or stronger tornado.
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Graphic associated with an example mesoscale discussion.
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Graphic associated with an example tornado watch.
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An example of a Day 1 fire outlook, issued during the October 2007 California wildfires.
