“The storm that first sparked the alert has subsided and is no longer a direct threat to people or property. As a result, the warning will be permitted to end. However, this thunderstorm still has the potential to produce tiny hail and strong winds. Consequently, the National Weather Service reports that a Special Weather Statement has been issued for parts of northern Berkshire County.
Expert safety measures for thunderstorms
Approximately 25 million lightning strikes occur in the United States annually, with the majority of these electrical discharges taking place in the summer. Sadly, according to the weather service, lightning kills roughly twenty people per year. As thunderstorms approach, the likelihood of lightning-related incidents increases and peaks when the storm is directly overhead. Still, it progressively subsides as the tempest passes.
In order to ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, remember these tips:
Lightning safety plan:
- When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
- Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
- Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.
Indoors safety measures:
- Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
- Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.
Wait for the all-clear
- After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
- Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.
When indoor shelter isn’t available:
To increase your safety during a thunderstorm, if you find yourself outside without access to indoor protection, follow these measures:
- Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
- Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
- If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
- Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
- Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.
In short, readiness and alertness are your greatest allies while dealing with the threat of lightning. You may prioritize your safety and drastically lower the likelihood of lightning-related mishaps by adhering to these instructions.
Driving under heavy rain: Wet road safety precautions
There is a greater chance of flooding and dangerous driving conditions when heavy rain starts. Being ready is critical, regardless of the amount of rainfall or the speed at which it occurs. The weather service has provided the following important safety advice to help you stay safe during periods of severe rain:
Beware of rapid water flow:
Avoid parking or strolling next to drainage ditches or culverts during periods of high rainfall since the fast-moving water can be quite dangerous.
Maintain safe driving distances:
When it’s raining heavily, the two-second rule of distance is your friend. To provide safe spacing in unfavorable circumstances, extend it to four seconds.
Slow down and stay cautious:
Reducing your speed is essential on wet roads. To stop skidding, gradually release the gas pedal and steer clear of sudden stops.
Choose your lane wisely:
On multi-lane roads, stay in the middle lanes to reduce the chance of hydroplaning because water tends to pool in the outer lanes.
Visibility matters:
Turn on your headlights to improve your visibility in severe rain. Rain-smeared windows might make it difficult to see vehicles in blind zones, so pay extra attention to them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
After the rain starts, exercise additional caution for the first thirty minutes. Water combines with oil and grime on the road surface to create slick conditions.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Avoid following buses or big vehicles too closely. Their big tires produce a mist that blurs your eyesight. Additionally, exercise caution when passing them; if necessary, move swiftly and safely.
Wiper blade overload might make it difficult to see. If the rain significantly impairs your vision, stop and wait for the situation to clear up. Look for safety or shelter in rest zones.
If you have nowhere else to go but the side of the road, pull your car as far off the road as you can, preferably beyond any guardrails. To let other cars know where you are, turn on your emergency flashers and maintain your headlights on.
These safety measures can significantly impact your driving safety during periods of intense rain. To ensure a safe travel, don’t forget to pay attention to local authorities’ instructions and remain updated about weather conditions.
