Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Safety Tips & What To Do

Severe thunderstorms can bring damaging winds, hail, and even tornadoes. A severe thunderstorm warning means that these dangerous conditions are imminent or are already occurring in your area. Knowing what to do before, during, and after a severe thunderstorm can help keep you and your loved ones safe.

What is a Severe Thunderstorm?

A thunderstorm is classified as severe when it produces one or more of the following:

• Hail: Hailstones with a diameter of 1 inch or greater.
• Wind: Winds of 58 mph (93 km/h) or greater.
• Tornado: A rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground.

Understanding the Difference: Watch vs. Warning

It's crucial to understand the difference between a severe thunderstorm watch and a warning:

• Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms to develop in the area. This means you should be prepared and monitor the weather.
• Severe Thunderstorm Warning: A severe thunderstorm is occurring or is imminent in your area. This means you should take immediate action to protect yourself.

Before a Severe Thunderstorm

Preparation is key to staying safe during a severe thunderstorm. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Stay Informed

• Monitor weather forecasts: Pay attention to local news, weather apps, and the National Weather Service (NWS) for updates.
• Sign up for alerts: Many communities offer emergency alerts via text or email. The NWS also provides Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on mobile phones.
• Have a weather radio: A NOAA Weather Radio is a valuable tool for receiving warnings and information, especially during power outages.

2. Create an Emergency Plan

• Identify a safe place: Know where to go for shelter. This could be a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
• Practice drills: Conduct regular drills with your family so everyone knows what to do during a severe thunderstorm.
• Prepare a communication plan: Have a way to contact family members if you are separated.

3. Prepare an Emergency Kit

Your emergency kit should include:

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Non-perishable food
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications
• Cell phone charger
• Weather radio
• Important documents

4. Secure Your Property

• Trim trees: Remove any dead or weak branches that could fall and cause damage.
• Secure outdoor objects: Bring in lawn furniture, decorations, and other items that could be blown away by high winds.
• Clean gutters: Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage.

During a Severe Thunderstorm

When a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, take the following steps immediately:

1. Seek Shelter

• Go indoors: The safest place to be during a severe thunderstorm is inside a sturdy building.
• Stay away from windows and doors: These are the most vulnerable parts of a building.
• Basement or storm cellar: If you have access to a basement or storm cellar, go there immediately.
• Interior room: If a basement isn't available, go to an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.

2. If You Are Outdoors

• Seek shelter immediately: Find the nearest sturdy building or hard-top vehicle.
• Avoid open areas: Stay away from fields, hilltops, and bodies of water.
• Crouch low: If you can't find shelter, crouch low to the ground in a ditch or ravine, protecting your head and neck.

3. If You Are in a Vehicle

• Pull over: If possible, pull over to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
• Stay inside: Remain in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened.
• Avoid bridges and overpasses: These can be dangerous in high winds.

4. Protect Yourself from Lightning

Lightning is a significant threat during a thunderstorm. Remember these safety tips:

• Go indoors: The best protection from lightning is to be inside a sturdy building.
• Stay away from water: Do not shower, bathe, or wash dishes during a thunderstorm.
• Avoid electronics: Do not use computers, TVs, or other electronic devices.
• Stay off the phone: Avoid using landline phones, as lightning can travel through phone lines.

5. Stay Informed

• Monitor weather updates: Continue to monitor weather forecasts and alerts during the storm.
• Use a weather radio: A NOAA Weather Radio can provide critical information during a power outage.

After a Severe Thunderstorm

Once the storm has passed, there are still steps you need to take to ensure your safety: — San Antonio To New Orleans Road Trip: Your Ultimate Guide

1. Check for Injuries

• Assess yourself and others: Look for any injuries and provide first aid if needed.
• Call for help: If there are serious injuries, call 911 or your local emergency number.

2. Survey the Damage

• Inspect your property: Check for damage to your home, trees, and power lines.
• Report downed power lines: Stay away from downed power lines and report them to the utility company.
• Document damage: Take photos and videos of any damage for insurance purposes.

3. Avoid Floodwaters

• Flash flooding: Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, so be aware of flooded areas.
• Do not drive through floodwaters: It only takes a few inches of water to sweep a car away.

4. Stay Informed

• Monitor news and alerts: Continue to monitor weather updates and emergency alerts.
• Follow instructions: Listen to local authorities for guidance and instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between a severe thunderstorm watch and a warning?

A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms to develop in the area. A severe thunderstorm warning means a severe thunderstorm is occurring or imminent in your area.

2. How do I know if a thunderstorm is severe?

A thunderstorm is classified as severe if it produces hail of 1 inch or greater, winds of 58 mph or greater, or a tornado. — Explore Thai Town: A Guide To LA's Vibrant Cultural Hub

3. Where is the safest place to be during a severe thunderstorm?

The safest place to be is inside a sturdy building, away from windows and doors. A basement or storm cellar is the best option, followed by an interior room on the lowest floor.

4. What should I do if I am caught outside during a severe thunderstorm?

Seek shelter immediately. If no shelter is available, crouch low to the ground in a ditch or ravine, protecting your head and neck.

5. How can I protect myself from lightning during a thunderstorm?

Go indoors, stay away from water and electronics, and avoid using landline phones. — Devin Booker's Ethnicity: Uncovering His Heritage

6. What should I include in an emergency kit for severe thunderstorms?

Your kit should include water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit, medications, a cell phone charger, a weather radio, and important documents.

Conclusion

Severe thunderstorms can be dangerous, but with proper preparation and knowledge, you can protect yourself and your family. Remember to stay informed, have an emergency plan, and take immediate action when a severe thunderstorm warning is issued. Stay safe, and be prepared!

Call to Action: Sign up for local emergency alerts and download a weather app to stay informed about severe weather in your area.