Thunderstorms are dangerous storms that include lightening. It can produce hail and have powerful wind gusts. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.
preparing for a thunderstorm
Sign up for your community's warning system, B-Warn, The Emergency Alert System (EAS), and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio.
Cut down or trim trees that may be in danger of falling on your home.
Make an emergency plan so everyone in your household knows where to go and what to do in case of a thunderstorm warning.
Know the safest location for shelter in your home, workplace, and school.
Get trained in first aid and learn how to respond to emergencies.
Make an emergency kit.
stay safe during a thunderstorm
"When thunder roars, go indoors!"
If you are boating or swimming, get to land and seek shelter immediately.
Stay inside until 30 minutes after you last hear thunder or see lightning. Remember, lightning can strike more than 10 miles away from any rainfall.
Pay attention to alerts and warnings.
Avoid electrical equipment connected to an electrical outlet.
If you are outside and can not find shelter inside, avoid high ground, water, tall isolated trees, and metal objects.
Do not drive through flooded roadways.
after a thunderstorm
Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
Inspect your property and vehicles for damage.
Stay away from storm damaged areas.
know the difference
Severe Thunderstorm Watch- Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning- Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. Take shelter in a substantial building. Get our of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds.