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.