Severe Storms

Severe weather, including lightning, hail, flooding, and strong wind, is most common during the spring and summer months. Thunderstorms can occur singly or in clusters or lines and typically produce heavy rain for a brief period. Occasionally, tornadoes can also occur.

Graphic outlines the difference between a Thunderstorm Watch and Warning. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued when a severe thunderstorm is possible. Stay tuned to forecast updates, monitor conditions and know where to shelter. Be Prepared. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued when a thunderstorm is happening or about to happen. Take shelter immediately! Take Action!

El gráfico describe la diferencia entre una Vigilancia de Tormenta Eléctrica y una Advertencia de Tormenta Eléctrica. Una Vigilancia de Tormenta Severa se emite cuando es posible una tormenta severa. Manténgase informado con las actualizaciones del pronóstico, supervise las condiciones y sepa dónde refugiarse. Esté preparado. Una Advertencia de Tormenta Severa se emite cuando una tormenta está ocurriendo o a punto de ocurrir. ¡Refúgiese inmediatamente! ¡Actúe!

Remember:

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means that there is a possibility of storm activity in the area. Stay tuned to forecast updates, monitor conditions, and know where to take shelter. Be Prepared.

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning means that activity is happening or is about to happen. Take shelter immediately! Take Action!

Prior to Severe Thunderstorms

Ensure that you have enough food water, medication (if needed) and batteries. Because power is often lost during severe storms, food that does not require cooking should be considered. Get tips on building your emergency kit.
Check portable radios, smoke detectors, and flashlights to ensure they are properly operating and that the batteries are fresh.
Stay tuned to local weather and news reports and remain alert for changing weather conditions.
If you are located in a low-lying area and flooding is anticipated, remove furniture and valuables from the areas that are prone to water accumulation.
If strong winds are predicted (in excess of 70 miles per hour), consider boarding up your windows to prevent breakage. Also, trash cans and other items around the yard should be taken indoors or secured to prevent the wind from carrying them away.
Run necessary errands before severe weather begins; don't wait until the storm begins to venture outside.
Ensure that your vehicle is fueled. Don't drive during the storm unless it is necessary. If you must, stay away from roads near rivers and streams and areas where flooding may occur. Never cross over a roadway that has flowing water.

El gráfico muestra un rayo y las actividades que debes evitar durante las tormentas, incluyendo golf, navegación, correr, hacer parrilladas, caminar, trabajar al aire libre, montar motocicletas, jardinería y nadar. Advierte que si escuchas trueno, debes entrar y buscar refugio.

During Severe Thunderstorms

Graphic shows a lightning strike and activities you should avoid during storms, including golf, sailing, running, grilling, walking, outdoor work, riding motorcycles, gardening and swimming. It warns if you hear thunder, go indoors and seek shelter.

Stay indoors and away from windows. If a tornado or hurricane-force winds are predicted, relocate to the basement or a room that has no windows.
If outside, seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately.
Stay tuned to local weather and news reports for emergency information.
If power is lost, do not use candles for lighting; use a flashlight.
Avoid contact with corded phones and devices including those plugged into electric for recharging. Cordless and wireless phones not connected to wall outlets are OK to use.
Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.
Avoid natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.
Avoid hilltops, open fields, the beach or a boat on the water.
Take shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
Avoid contact with anything metal—tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.
If you are driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.

After Severe Thunderstorms

Do not use fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters. If refrigeration is lost because of a power outage, perishable foods such as meat and milk products may not be suitable to eat and should be discarded.
Even though the storm has passed, hazardous conditions may still exist, including downed power lines, trees, and flood waters. Call utility companies to report downed lines and power outages.
Never drive through a flooded roadway. Turn around, don’t drown!
Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms.
Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or those with access or functional needs.

Remember to listen to the radio and sign up for Alert Montgomery to stay informed and receive further instructions in the event of an emergency.

For more information on preparing for severe storms visit Ready.gov