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Garrett County Government
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Preparing For A Thunderstorm

Weather Alerts

  • Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are likely to occur
  • Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe thunderstorms have been spotted, and people in the path of the storm are in danger

Learn the thunderstorm danger signs:

  • Dark, towering, or threatening clouds
  • Distant lightning and thunder

Have emergency supplies on hand:

  •  Flash light and extra batteries
  •  Portable battery-operated radio and extra batteries
  •  Emergency food and water
  •  Portable can opener
  •  First aid kit and manual
  •  Essential medicines
  •  Cash and credit cards
  •  Sturdy Shoes

Before Thunderstorms Strike

  •  Cut down dead trees and clear branches from around your house.
  •  Secure loose outdoor objects such as patio furniture.
  •  Shutter the windows and secure the doors.

During a Thunderstorm

  • Get or stay inside if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder.
  • Do not shower or bathe.
  • Do not use a corded telephone, except in an emergency. Cell phones and cordless phones are OK to use during a storm.
  • Unplug electronics and turn off air conditioners.
  • If out side in a forest, take shelter under a thick growth of small trees.
  • If outside in an open area, move to a low spot such as a ravine or valley - but beware of flash flooding.
  • Never stand under a tall, isolated tree, on a hilltop, in an open field, on the beach or near open water.
  • Stay away from metal equipment and apparatus such as fences, tractors, pipes and bicycles.
  • If swimming or boating, get out of the water immediately and take shelter.

If You're About to Be Struck

  • Feeling your hair stand on end means lightning is about to strike nearby. Make yourself into a small target.
  • Squat down on the balls of your feet-do not lie flat on the ground.
  • Place your hands over your ears and tuck your head between your knees.