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.