High winds can occur during a severe thunderstorm. When winds are sustained at 40-50 mph, isolated wind damage is possible. Widespread significant wind damage can occur with higher wind speeds. During strong thunderstorms, straight-line wind speeds can exceed 100 mph. High winds can blow objects around and significantly threaten your safety. Understanding the risks can help you prepare for these events.

When most people think about winds associated with a thunderstorm, they think of tornadoes; however, most years, there are far more damage reports from thunderstorm straight-line winds than from tornadoes. Straight-line winds are thunderstorm winds that have no rotation, i.e., not a tornado.

Downbursts are a common cause of wind damage from a thunderstorm. They can reach over 100 mph and are caused by air being dragged down by precipitation. When the air reaches the ground, it spreads outward across the surface of the land it encounters in a straight line. 

A Derecho is a very long-lived and damaging thunderstorm. A storm is classified as a derecho if the wind damage swath extends more than 240 miles and has wind gusts of at least 58 mph or greater along most of the length of the storm's path. 

The National Weather Service issues several types of Advisories, Watches, Warnings and other products to alert the public about high wind events.

High Wind Warning: Take Action! Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheels and slow down. NWS offices issue this product based on local criteria.

High Wind Watch: Be Prepared! Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose outdoor items and adjust plans as necessary so you're not caught outside. NWS offices issue this product based on local criteria.

Wind Advisory: Take Action! Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong as to warrant a High Wind Warning. Objects that are outdoors should be secured and caution should be taken if driving. NWS offices issue this product based on local criteria.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Be Prepared! A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued when severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Winds 58 mph or higher and/or hail 1 inch or larger are possible in a severe thunderstorm. Secure items outdoors that may blow around in high winds. Stay informed and be ready to take action.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Take Action! A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued when severe thunderstorms is happening or is imminent in the warning area. Severe thunderstorms have wind 58 mph or higher and/or hail 1 inch or larger. Seek shelter inside a sturdy building, away from windows. Tornadoes and lighting are possible during severe thunderstorms.