Storm Mode Methodology & Data Sources

Overview

Storm Mode is an informational system developed by Steadfast Storm Shelters to provide real-time storm context using official public weather data.

The system is designed to help users understand current severe weather conditions in their area by organizing National Weather Service (NWS) information into a clear, accessible format.

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Purpose of Storm Mode

The purpose of Storm Mode is to reduce confusion during severe weather events by presenting verified, authoritative storm information in a single view.

Many homeowners encounter difficulty interpreting raw radar imagery or understanding the difference between watches and warnings. Storm Mode exists to provide situational awareness without speculation, urgency, or interpretation beyond official classifications.

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Data Displayed in Storm Mode

Storm Mode displays the following information:

• Live radar imagery showing precipitation intensity and storm structure
  
• Active National Weather Service watches and warnings, including:
  
  
  • Tornado Warnings
    
  • Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
    
  • Tornado Watches
    
  • Severe Thunderstorm Watches
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• Geographic watch and warning areas as issued by the NWS
  
• Location-based context, using user location or ZIP code input
  
• Clear status indicators summarizing whether active warnings are nearby
  
  

All watches and warnings shown in Storm Mode originate from official NWS issuances.

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Watches vs. Warnings

Storm Mode reflects National Weather Service definitions:

• Watches indicate that conditions are favorable for severe weather over a broad area
  
• Warnings indicate that severe weather has been detected or reported and is more geographically specific
  
  

Storm Mode does not reinterpret or modify these definitions.

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What Storm Mode Does Not Do

Storm Mode does not:

• Predict storm development or tornado formation
  
• Issue emergency alerts or notifications
  
• Replace NOAA Weather Radio, mobile alerts, or local emergency management systems
  
• Interpret radar signatures beyond official classifications
  
• Provide evacuation instructions or safety directives
  
• Function as a weather forecasting service
  
  

Users should always rely on official alerts from the National Weather Service and local authorities for life-safety decisions.

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Data Sources

Storm Mode uses publicly available data from authoritative sources, including:

• National Weather Service (NWS) severe weather watches and warnings
  
• NOAA-affiliated weather data systems
  
• Third-party radar services that aggregate and display official NOAA radar data
  
  

Steadfast Storm Shelters does not generate or modify weather data.

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Update Frequency

• Radar imagery updates continuously based on provider availability
  
• Watches and warnings update automatically as they are issued, updated, or expired by the NWS
  
• Display timing may vary slightly due to data provider latency
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Known Limitations

While Storm Mode relies on official data, users should be aware of the following limitations:

• Radar imagery may be delayed by several minutes
  
• Warning polygons may change as storms evolve
  
• Location accuracy depends on device permissions or ZIP code input
  
• Storm intensity and impacts may vary within warning areas
  
• Data availability may be affected during high-traffic or severe events
  
  

Storm Mode prioritizes clarity and accuracy over speed or speculation.

Storm Mode is intended to support storm preparedness awareness by helping users understand real-time conditions.

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Relationship to Preparedness

Long-term preparedness decisions, including shelter planning, should be informed by both real-time context and historical storm exposure data.

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During major weather events, brief delays or interruptions may occur.

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How to Cite Storm Mode

Storm Mode data may be cited as follows:

“According to Steadfast Storm Shelters’ Storm Mode™, which displays real-time National Weather Service watches, warnings, and radar data.”

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Transparency Statement

Storm Mode is provided for informational purposes only. Steadfast Storm Shelters does not provide meteorological forecasts, emergency alerts, or safety instructions through this system.