Weather Alerts
Weather services issue several kinds of alerts, including watches and warnings. A “watch” indicates that conditions are favorable for the development of severe weather, such as flooding, thunderstorms or tornadoes. A “warning” indicates that such severe weather has already been reported in your area. Know the name of the county you live in so that you can tell if a watch or warning affects your area.
Thunder and Lightning
Seek shelter as soon as you see lightning or hear thunder, even if the thunder remains distant. Lightning can strike from five to 10 miles away, so distant thunder means danger. Seek shelter in a sturdy, fully enclosed building if possible. If you cannot get to a safe building, a fully enclosed vehicle can provide shelter from lightning. Dugouts, gazebos and open-air pavilions do not provide sufficient shelter. If you cannot reach a shelter, crouch down in an open area away from trees. If you reach an indoor shelter, stay away from large electronic equipment or plumbing appliances such as showers and sinks during a lightning storm, because electric currents from lightning strikes can travel through wiring and plumbing.
Tornadoes
If your local weather service issues a tornado warning, go to the basement or to an interior room on the lowest level of your home. Crouch down and cover your head. Seek shelter in a sturdy, enclosed building rather than in a mobile home or automobile. Avoid windows.
Floods
If your local weather service issues a flood warning, move to high ground immediately. Avoid flood-prone areas such as riverbeds. If you encounter a flooded area or flowing stream, do not attempt to cross it. Do not play near floodwaters or storm drains, even after the flood begins to recede.
Heat and Sun
Even calm, sunny weather can pose a threat to your safety. Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause sunburn. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 to protect yourself from burns, and wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck from the sun. Avoid strenuous physical activity in extreme heat. Stay in the shade or in an air-conditioned area whenever possible. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
