**Staying Safe During Severe Thunderstorms and Tornadoes**
With the increasing frequency and intensity of severe weather events, it’s crucial for everyone to know how to stay safe during thunderstorms and tornadoes. Here are some essential steps to follow:
**Recognizing the Signs of Severe Weather**
Thunderstorms:
* Dark, towering clouds with a distinct anvil shape
* Continuous thunder and lightning
* Heavy rain, sometimes with hail
* Gusty winds
Tornadoes:
* Dark, rapidly rotating funnel cloud extending from the base of a thunderstorm
* Debris swirling in the air
* Roaring or whistling sound
**Safety During Thunderstorms**
* Seek shelter indoors: The best place to be during a thunderstorm is in a sturdy building with a basement or interior room away from windows and doors.
* Avoid open areas and water: Lightning can strike tall objects and bodies of water. Stay away from fields, golf courses, and swimming pools.
* Unplug electronics: Surge protectors can help prevent damage from lightning strikes.
* Listen to the news: Stay updated on weather forecasts and warnings. Heed any evacuation orders.
**Safety During Tornados**
* Seek shelter in an underground location: If you’re in a house without a basement, go to the lowest floor and find an interior room (bathroom or closet) that is central to the house.
* Stay away from windows and doors: Flying debris can be deadly.
* Cover your body: Protect yourself from flying glass and debris by covering your head and body with blankets, pillows, or mattresses.
* Know the warning signs: If you see a tornado forming, take cover immediately.
**After the Storm**
* Stay informed: Listen to local news for updates on the storm and any evacuation orders.
* Inspect your home: Check for damage, especially to your roof, windows, and walls. Avoid entering badly damaged buildings.
* Report power lines: If you see downed power lines, call 911 immediately. Never touch downed wires.
* Be aware of hidden hazards: Flooding and debris can create hazards. Stay away from affected areas until they are cleared.
**Additional Tips for Staying Safe in Severe Weather:**
* Have an emergency plan in place and practice it with your family.
* Keep a first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, and non-perishable food at home.
* Charge your cell phone and other electronic devices.
* Stay calm and don’t panic. Following these safety measures can help reduce your risk of injury or damage during severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. Remember, safety should always be your top priority during extreme weather events.