Spring weather safety

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Deana Heitzman
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Throughout spring, thunderstorms are more common to form around the Aviano area, prompting the 31st Operation Support Squadron Weather Flight to issue various types of weather updates.

The 31st OSS here and the 21st Operation Weather Squadron at Sembach Kaserne, Germany, work with other base agencies to ensure base personnel are informed about potential weather advisories, watches and warnings.

"Throughout the spring, lightning and thunderstorms watches are quite common," said 1st Lt. David DeMeuse, 31st OSS Weather Flight commander. "Distinguishing the difference between a weather advisory, watch and warning could help Team Aviano members to make the safest decisions during weather changes."

According to the 21st OWS, a "weather advisory" is considered when a dangerous weather condition could potentially occur. A "weather watch" is when a weather conditions could potentially pose a threat to life or property around base and a "weather warning" means a weather condition is occurring.

"If the 21st OWS sees a storm coming toward Aviano, they will alert us if the lightening could come within five [nautical miles]," said DeMeuse. "If the storm reminds on track to Aviano, our weather flight will observe the storm and issue the appropriate advisory.'"

To avoid potential hazards, personnel who are outside during a weather warning or watch are encouraged to follow weather instructions. Personnel can help ensure their safety by frequently checking the weather, taking the essential action during weather changes and seeking shelter when required for safety reasons.

"In Europe, they do not have weather networks like we are used to in the U.S.," said DeMeuse. "It is hard to get the notice out to people about what watches mean or what they need to do during them. We are used to getting our weather on our local news stations. It is up to the 21 OWS, 31st OSS and other base agencies to keep Team Avaino safe and informed."