Summer weather announcements explained Published June 14, 2007 By Capt. Chad Little 31st Operations Support Squadron weather flight Aviano Air Base, Italy -- Now that the wing has entered the 101 Critical Days of Summer and started to enjoy all the outdoor activities, one important safety consideration to factor in is the weather. Airmen are reminded weekly at roll calls how dangerous the roads can be after the rain, but it's not very often that the dangers of lightning are discussed. The spring and summer seasons at Aviano typically bring beautiful weather but also bring afternoon thunderstorms. Typical summer days can start with clear blue skies in the morning making people think their afternoon will have no weather issues. However, as the day progresses more clouds could develop, especially over the mountains. As clouds build higher and higher, they become darker and darker and can slowly begin to hide the sunshine that was promising hours earlier. Not long after that people hear Aviano's giant voice warning of thunderstorms or lightning watches or warnings. These announcements are a combined effort between the 31st Operations Support Squadron weather flight, the 31st Fighter Wing command post and 21st Operational Weather Squadron at Sembach, Germany, which is Aviano's regional weather center. These announcements are made for everyones safety especially those working or participating in an outdoor activity. During the spring and summer season, Aviano members will mainly hear three weather announcements. The following is an explanation of each announcement and actions people should take: · Lightning watch for the potential of lightning within five miles of Aviano: This notification is to inform the community that conditions are favorable for the development of thunderstorms and lightning. Lightning has not been observed within five miles of the flightline, but the potential for lightning exists. People should evaluate the necessity of working outdoors and scan the location for possible areas to take cover, if a warning is issued. They should also monitor the clouds and if they look dark, chances are lightning will follow. · Thunderstorm advisory for observed thunderstorms within 10 miles of Aviano: This notification is to let the base know the weather flight has identified a thunderstorm with lightning within 10 miles of the center of the flightline. Depending on the location of the storm, this means that a lightning watch or warning could be issued soon. People should prepare for the possible issuance of lightning watches and warnings. · Lightning warning for lightning observed within five miles of Aviano: This is the most serious notification. When people hear this announcement, it means the weather flight has detected lightning on a lightning detector or observed it within five miles of the flightline. Typically people should cease outdoor activities and find cover unless mission requirements demand or require other actions. Lightning can strike anything within a five- to 10-mile radius. The danger for lightning exists at least 15 minutes after the last strike, so expect the warning to be active at least 15 minutes before cancelled. With each announcement, people working outside should check with their work centers for procedures on specific actions regarding resources and personnel. Weather action procedures should be reviewed annually and discussed in the work center. Late afternoon thunderstorms are a consequence of living here, however with planning and awareness people can enjoy their day.