Storm safety tips: how to prepare for a storm

Thunderstorms are caused by an unstable moisture-filled air mass and the rising and falling atmospheric motion known as a convection cell. All thunderstorms are accompanied by lightning, however, you may see bolts of lightning in the sky without hearing thunder. About 100,000 thunderstorms occur across the U.S. every year, and of these, about 10% are considered severe. Rainfall associated with thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, which is responsible for more deaths annually than hurricanes, tornadoes, or lightning. While the chance of getting hit by lightning in the U.S. is one in 700,000, a strike can be fatal or result in permanent physical and behavioral side effects. And fire departments in the U.S. respond to an estimated 22,600 fires started by lightning every year. In addition, thunderstorms are associated with strong winds (up to more than 120 mph) that can knock down trees, power lines, and mobile homes. Listening to weather forecasts and planning ahead are two essential steps for staying safe when a storm hits.

Thunderstorms 101

Of course, when you live in the Pacific Northwest, thunderstorms aren’t typically second nature – that’s why it’s important to know the basics and teach your children what to look for.

• Pay attention to the area in which storms are reported and the direction they’re moving
• Be aware that lightning can potentially strike as far as 50 miles from the storm cloud itself, in any direction
• If the time between seeing lightning and hearing thunder is 30 seconds or less, that means the thunderstorm is within six miles

Warning signs

• Dark, towering, and threatening clouds
• Distant thunder and lightning
• A sudden increase in wind

Mixing up the terms watch and warning is common, regardless of the region of the country you live in. Here’s the difference:

• Severe thunderstorm WATCH: A severe thunderstorm is possible. Stay tuned to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or TV for more information.
• Severe thunderstorm WARNING: A severe thunderstorm is expected or occurring. Take shelter immediately.

Storm safety tips

At the first sign of an approaching storm, close all your windows, secure outside doors, and unplug electronic equipment. Experts also recommend that you develop a family emergency plan. This includes where you’ll stay if you need to leave your home and special provisions that may be required for older adults, infants, and disabled or medically-fragile individuals. If you live on a coastal or inland shoreline, familiarize yourself with evacuation routes.

Items to keep on hand

• Flashlights (don’t use candles)
• Fresh batteries
• Battery-operated clock radio
• Fully-charged cell phone
• Non-perishable foods
• One gallon of bottled water per person per day
• Blankets
• A list of emergency phone numbers (e.g. 1-800-227-9187 to report power outages or downed lines)

Outdoor tips

If you’ve heard on weather reports that a storm is approaching or the skies look threatening, shelter inside your home, a building, or a hard-top automobile. The following tips can help prevent damage and reduce clean-up after the storm.

• Remove dead, loose, or rotting trees and branches
• Keep storm drains clear by cleaning gutters and downspouts regularly
• Secure outdoor objects (e.g. furniture, grills, toys, etc.)
• If you have an electric garage door opener, find the manual override
• If you’re on the road when a storm hits, drive with extra care and exit safely as soon as possible