Severe Thunderstorm Watch 7/2

The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch which is in effect until 9 PM for Penobscot, Hancock, Washington, Aroostook and Piscataquis Counties.

A severe thunderstorm watch is issued when there is a potential for severe thunderstorms to form or move into the area. A severe thunderstorm consists of wind gusts of 58 miles per hour or higher, or 1 inch diameter size hail or larger. A Watch is typically in effect for about 6 hours.

A severe thunderstorm WARNING is issued when a thunderstorm is expected to produce wind gusts of 58 miles per hour or higher, or 1 inch diameter size hail or larger. In this case severe weather has already been reported, or the thunderstorm looks severe based on Doppler Radar. The warning is typically in effect for 30 to 60 minutes.