THUNDERSTORMSSevere storms can strike quickly. Thunderstorms can produce heavy rain, strong winds, lighting, hail and tornados. Respond promptly to these threats posed by a storm in your area.
The National Weather Service, in cooperation with the broadcast media and your local spotter system, will provide you with the warnings you need to quickly respond. If you listen to your local media, you will know when a storm is approaching your area and if you need to take protective action.
NOAA Weather Radios are the best warning system for all kinds of emergencies, including severe storms. These inexpensive devices are recommended as the primary warning system for everyone.
Do not wait until an emergency siren sounds to start looking for flashlights and other things. Make sure the entire family knows where to go at home, at work, at school, at the mall or anywhere they might be when the storms strike. Know where you will take shelter.
What’s the difference between a Severe Thunderstorm Watch and a Severe Thunderstorm Warning?
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means BE PREPARED. Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act in a severe thunderstorm warning is issued by the Storm Prediction Center for counties where severe thunderstorms may occur. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states.
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning means TAKE ACTION. Severe weather has been reported by spotters or is indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. Take shelter in a substantial building. Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds.
LIGHTNING
Lightning is one of the most underrated weather hazards. It makes every single thunderstorm a potential killer. According to the NOAA, over the past 20 years, the United States has averaged 51 fatalities from lightning strikes annually with hundreds more surviving a strike. This places it second to floods for deadly weather. Tornados, hail and wind gusts get more attention; however, lightning can strike outside of the storm itself. It is the first thunderstorm hazard to arrive and the last to leave.
Because lightning is, so unpredictable it is more dangerous and no one can guarantee an individual or group absolute protection from it. It is ultimately your responsibility to take appropriate action to maintain the safety of your family and yourself. Knowing and following proven lightning safety guidelines can greatly reduce the risk of injury or death.
Lightning can strike more than 10 miles from the nearest rainfall. Most people are not struck at the height of the storm but either before or after it has peaked. Therefore, if you hear thunder, you should seek shelter. It means lightning is within striking distance. Remember these mottos: When it roars, go indoors and See a flash, dash indoors. Stay inside for 30 minutes after the last thunderclap. During thunderstorms, stay inside. If you are outdoors, a car is a safe place.
Indoors, keep away from doors, windows, stoves, sinks, metal pipes or other conductors. Don’t use the telephone, computer or other electrical devices. Disconnect electrical appliances such as TVs and radios.
Outdoors, minimize your height but don’t lie flat. Do not take shelter under a tree, or rocky overhang. Stay away from wire fences or other metallic conductors. Avoid standing in small sheds in open areas.
To minimize your chance of personal risk while outdoors, plan ahead. Check the weather forecast. If there is a chance of bad weather, take a NOAA weather radio and designate someone to monitor your local station for changes. Know where you can shelter if the need arises. If you hear thunder or the sky looks threatening, take shelter at once.
HAILSTORMS
Hailstorms don’t last long, but they can create a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Every year, hail causes nearly 41 billion in damages, mostly to roofs and cars.
During a hailstorm, protect yourself and your car. In severe storms, a hailstone can be as big as a softball and fall at 50 to 100 miles per hour.
To stay safe during a hailstorm: stay indoors; stay away from skylights and glass doors to avoid broken glass; close drapes, blinds and shades, if it is safe to avoid debris from blowing inside; and park your car in a garage or other covered area if possible.
Preparedness links for more information:
Watch Vs. Warning
NWS Severe Thurnderstorm Safety
NWS Lighting Tips and Resources
NWS Wind Safety and Information