Johnathan Orellana

Johnathan is The Weather Station Experts' resident "explainer in chief," writing many of our educational and how-to articles. He has been freelance writing for the past two years, specializing in digital marketing and general marketing tips.
pollen particulate matter

What is Particulate Matter?

This common household pollutant can be found in high concentrations in many homes
by

Whether you realize it or not, you encounter particulate matter every day. It comes from numerous sources, including gas-burning vehicles, factories, and other industrial sources.

What is a Tornado Watch?

How tornadoes form, and how to stay safe if you're in harms way
by

Most common in the U.S. in the Great Plains and the Southeast, tornadoes are one of nature’s most violent weather events. Since thunderstorms always precede tornadoes, thunderstorms are prevalent in the same regions as tornadoes.

flash flood

What is a Flash Flood Watch?

Flash flooding can happen quickly. Here's how to prepare
by

Areas that experience heavy rainfall, snowmelt, and tropical storms are susceptible to flash floods. If weather conditions are favorable for a flash flood in your area, the National Weather Service issues a flash flood watch to give you time to prepare.

blizzard in new york city

What is a Blizzard Warning?

What it means and what you should do to prepare right now
by

Although blizzards are most common in the Great Plains, the upper Midwest, and the Northeastern U.S., blizzards can occur just about anywhere where snow falls in winter.

heavy ice on branches

What is an Ice Storm Warning?

Severe ice storms can be dangerous. Here's how to stay safe (by staying home)
by

In the Northeastern US, ice storms are dangerous winter weather events that can cause extensive damage due to severe ice accumulation. Severe ice storms are commonplace in states like Vermont, Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey during cold winters but have also occurred in states further south and west.

22 Great Weather Gifts

The perfect gifts for the meteorologist in your life
by

The holiday shopping season is here, and there are some great deals on weather gifts. We’ve rounded up 22 (that’s not a typo!) gifts for weather lovers for you to consider for the weather nerd in your life this holiday season, no matter the holiday you’re shopping for.

severe thunderstorm watch

What is a Severe Thunderstorm Watch?

Prepare now for all kinds of severe weather, including the possibility of a tornado
by

Severe thunderstorms are common in the Southeast U.S and Midwest. However, they can happen almost anywhere (even in unusual places, like Alaska). If weather conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms, the National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm watch.

Philadelphia winter storm

What is a Winter Storm Watch?

A winter storm is on the way. Here's how to prepare
by

If weather conditions are favorable for hazardous winter weather in your area within 48 hours, then the National Weather Service issues a winter storm watch. Winter storm watches hint at the possibility of hazardous winter weather.

airthings wave plus indoor air quality monitor for the home

Indoor Air Quality Monitors

These devices are a must to stay healthy in your home
by

Although outdoor air quality gets all the attention, monitoring your air quality indoors is essential too. Indoor pollutants pose a health risk if not monitored properly. Thankfully, indoor air quality monitors provide all the information you need to detect poor air quality.