Thunderstorms & Lightning Safety
Before
the Storm
- Know the county
or parish in which you live and the names
of nearby major cities. Severe weather warnings
are issued on a county or parish basis.
- Check the
weather forecast before leaving for extended
periods outdoors.
- Watch for
signs of approaching storms.
- If a storm
is approaching, keep a NOAA weather radio
or AM/FM radio with you.
- Postpone outdoor
activities if thunderstorms are imminent.
This is your best way to avoid being caught
in a dangerous situation.
- Check on those
who have trouble taking shelter if severe
weather threatens.
When Thunderstorms
Approach
- Remember:
if you can hear thunder, you are close enough
to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go
to safe shelter immediately!
- Move to a
sturdy building or car. Do not take shelter
in small sheds, under isolated trees, or in
convertible automobiles.
- If lightning
is occurring and a sturdy shelter is not available,
get inside a hard top automobile and keep
windows up.
- Get out of
boats and away from water.
- Telephone
lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity.
Unplug appliances not necessary for obtaining
weather information. Avoid using the telephone
or any electrical appliances. Use phones ONLY
in an emergency.
- Do not take
a bath or shower.
- Turn off air
conditioners. Power surges from lightning
can overload the compressors.
- Get to higher
ground if flash flooding or flooding is possible.
Once flooding begins, abandon cars and climb
to higher ground. Do not attempt to drive
to safety. Note: Most flash flood deaths occur
in automobiles.
If Caught Outdoors
and No Shelter Is Nearby
- Find a low
spot away from trees, fences, and poles. Make
sure the place you pick is not subject to
flooding.
- If you are
in the woods, take shelter under the shorter
trees.
- If you feel
your skin tingle or your hair stand on end,
squat low to the ground on the balls of your
feet. Place your hands on your knees with
your head between them. Make yourself the
smallest target possible, and minimize your
contact with the ground.
- If you are
boating or swimming, get to land and find
shelter immediately!
Stay informed
about the storm
- Listen to
NOAA weather radio, commercial radio, and
television for the latest watches and warnings.
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