Thunderstorms And Lightning
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Weather Emergency Terms To Know
- Severe Thunderstorm WATCH:Severe thunderstorms are possible in the watch area. Watch the sky and stay tuned to television or radio for weather updates.
- Severe Thunderstorm WARNING:Severe thunderstorms are occurring in the warning area. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm.
- Know the county in which you live, work or visit. Thunderstorm warnings are issued by county.
- Check the weather forecast before leaving for extended periods outdoors. Keep an operating battery television or radio with you.
- Watch for signs of approaching storms.
- Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent. This is the best way to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation.
- Secure outdoor objects, take light objects inside and check for other hazards in the yard.
- Unplug appliances, do not use the telephone, turn off air conditioners and do not take a bath or shower.
- Keep an emergency supply of water stored in unbreakable plastic containers. Fill your bathtub with water as a backup supply.
- Listen to the television or radio for current weather reports and emergency information.
- 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 the windows up.
- Get out of boats and away from water, golf courses and other open areas.
- 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 caught outdoors and there is no shelter nearby, find a low spot away from trees, fences and poles.
- Stay away from downed power lines, trees, broken glass, debris and disaster areas.
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