Severe Thunderstorms

Description
Severe thunderstorms are storms with winds in excess of 58 miles an hour and/or hail 3/4 inch or greater in diameter. Since 1986, severe thunderstorm winds have killed 310 people and injured over 4000 nationwide.

Severe Thunderstorm Safety
The strong wind gusts and hail of severe thunderstorms can damage buildings, knock down trees, and create a hazard due to wind-blown debris.

What you can do before a storm strikes...

• Know the county you live in and the names of the major nearby cities or towns. Severe weather warnings and statements are issued by county and reference major cities.
• Check the latest weather forecast and hazardous weather outlook.
• Watch for signs of an approaching thunderstorm.
• If a storm is approaching, keep a weather radio and/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.

When thunderstorms approach...

• REMEMBER: If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to a storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately!
• Move to a sturdy building.
• If no shelter is nearby or available, get in a hard top car and keep the windows up.
• If you are boating or swimming, get out of boats and away from the water, get to land and find shelter immediately.
• If you are indoors, unplug unnecessary appliances and only use the phone for emergencies.

For more information:

• Skywarn thunderstorm safety fact sheet. What to do before, during and after a severe thunderstorm.
• Severe Thunderstorm safety tips from the American Red Cross.
• National Severe Storms Laboratory contains information on severe storm research and links on storm studies and safety.