Severe Weather
Thunderstorms and Lightning
All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous. Other hazards associated with thunderstorms include tornadoes, strong winds, hail and flash flooding.
Facts about Thunderstorms:
- They may occur singly, in clusters, or in lines
- Some of the most severe occur when a single thunderstorm affects one location for an extended period of time
- Thunderstorms typically produce heavy rain for a brief period of 30 minutes to an hour
- Warm humid conditions are highly favorable for thunderstorms development
- Approximately 10% of thunderstorms are classified as “severe”; one that produces hail at least three-quarters of an inch in diameter, has winds of 58 miles per hour or higher, or produces a tornado
Facts about Lightning:
- Lightning’s unpredictability increases the risk to individuals and property
- Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles from rainfall
- “Heat lightning” is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far away to be heard
- Most deaths from lightning occur when people are caught outdoors in the summer months during the afternoon or evening
- The chances of a person being struck by lightning are estimated at 1 in 3,000
- Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be helped immediately
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
The National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm watch when severe thunderstorms are likely to occur.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning
The National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm warning when there is imminent danger to life and property of those in the path of a storm.
During a Thunderstorm:
- Get inside a house, building or hardtop vehicle. Although injuries may occur if a vehicle is struck, a person is much safer inside the vehicle than outside
- Avoid showering or bathing as metal bathroom plumbing and fixtures can conduct electricity causing shock or electrocution
- Use a corded phone only for emergencies; cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use
- Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers, stereos, televisions and air conditioners; power surges can cause serious damage
- Use a battery operated radio for weather updates
If outdoors:
- Avoid objects that can act as a lightning rod
- Seek shelter in a low lying area such as a ravine or valley
- Be alert to the possibility of flash floods
- If on open water, get to shore and find shelter immediately
- Remember that when hair stands on end (anywhere on the body) it is an indication that lightning is about to strike; when this happens, squat down minimizing contact with the ground
- Do not lie flat on the ground