Essential Thunderstorm Safety Tips for Non-Technical Users

Thunderstorms are powerful natural events that can pose significant risks, including lightning strikes, strong winds, hail, and flash floods. Understanding how to protect yourself and your loved ones during these storms is crucial.

What Are Thunderstorms?

A thunderstorm is a rain-bearing cloud that also produces thunder and lightning. All thunderstorms produce lightning and therefore are dangerous. (mass.gov)

How Can I Stay Safe During a Thunderstorm?

When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!

At the first sign of a thunderstorm—such as darkening skies, distant thunder, or lightning—seek shelter immediately. The safest places are substantial buildings and hard-topped vehicles. Avoid sheds, gazebos, dugouts, and bleachers, as they do not protect from lightning and high winds. (redcross.org)

Indoor Safety Measures

• Avoid Water and Plumbing: Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm because lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing. (cdc.gov)

• Stay Away from Windows and Doors: Keep away from windows and doors, and stay off porches. (cdc.gov)

• Avoid Using Corded Phones: Corded phones are NOT safe to use during a thunderstorm. However, cordless or cellular phones are safe to use during a storm. (cdc.gov)

Outdoor Safety Measures

• Seek Shelter Immediately: If you are caught outside during a thunderstorm, seek shelter immediately. No place outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area. (redcross.org)

• Avoid Open Spaces and Tall Objects: Stay away from open spaces such as golf courses, parks, playgrounds, ponds, lakes, swimming pools, and beaches. Avoid open vehicles such as convertibles, motorcycles, and golf carts. Avoid open structures such as porches, gazebos, baseball dugouts, and sports arenas. (cdc.gov)

• Crouch Down if No Shelter is Available: If you are caught in an open area, act quickly to find shelter. The most important action is to remove yourself from danger. Crouching or getting low to the ground can reduce your chances of being struck, but it does not remove you from danger. (cdc.gov)

How Can I Prepare Before a Thunderstorm?

• Stay Informed: Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government. Plan to monitor local weather and news. Have a backup battery or a way to charge your cell phone. In case of a power outage, have a battery-powered radio. (redcross.org)

• Secure Outdoor Items: Make a list of items outside your home you will need to tie down or put away so that they don’t blow away or fly through a window during high winds. When a High Wind, Severe Thunderstorm, or Tornado Watch is issued, immediately secure these items to avoid damage or injury once the wind starts picking up. (redcross.org)

• Review Your Home Insurance: Review your home insurance policy. Check to see if you are covered for flood damage. (redcross.org)

What Should I Do After a Thunderstorm?

• Stay Away from Downed Power Lines: Avoid fallen power lines, poles, and wires. They can electrocute you. Report them to the utility company immediately. (redcross.org)

• Check for Damage: If your home or property is damaged, take photos or videos to document your damage, and contact your insurance company. (redcross.org)

• Be Cautious of Flooding: Flash flooding happens quickly. Move to higher ground before floodwaters reach you. Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwater. Turn Around! Don’t Drown! (redcross.org)

By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with thunderstorms and ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.

Highlights:

• Thunderstorm Safety | American Red Cross
• Safety Guidelines: Lightning | Lightning | CDC, Published on Sunday, April 14
• Thunderstorm and Lightning Safety Tips | Mass.gov