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Thunderstorms: During The Storm
Severe Weather Safety and Advice From SkyWarn UK
When you notice the skies darken and the winds begin to shift, it could be an indication that a thunderstorm is approaching. Follow the guidelines below to keep safe during a thunderstorm.
Outdoor Safety
When thunderstorms are likely it is wise to postpone outdoor activities, and to avoid going outside. If you are caught outside during a thunderstorm then following these tips will help you to keep safe until the storm has passed:
- If you are in an open area find a low spot, such as a ravine or valley. Be alert, however, for flash floods.
- If you are in a wooded area, then find shelter under a thick growth of small trees if possible
- If you are on open water, head for land immediately and seek shelter
- If you are in a car, close the windows and keep them closed
- If you are outdoors and feel your hair stand on end (an indication of an imminent close strike), DO NOT lie flat on the ground. Doing so your fully extended body will provide a larger surface to conduct electricity. Instead, you should squat low to the ground, place your hands over your ears and put your head between your knees. This will help to make you as small a target as possible while minimising your contact with the ground.
- Stay away from anything made of metal, such as bicyclces, golf buggies, golf clubs, motorcycles, tractors and farm equipment
- Stay away from natural lightning rods, such as isolated tall trees. Avoid hilltops, the beach, and boats on open water.
Hail
As well as heavy rain and lightning, thunderstorms can produce hazardous hail. Hail can pose a danger, be as small as a pea or as large as a golf ball. Hail can reach very high speeds as it plummets to the ground and can cause damage to cars, greenhouses, windows, and especially plants and crops.
If you see or hear hail hitting the ground during a thunderstorm, then ensure you remain indoors, or seek shelter immediately.
- Hail is rarely fatal, but it can cause injury if caught out in a severe hailstorm.
- Hailstones over 50 mm / 2 inches diameter have occured in the UK on several occasions
- The larger the thunderstorm, the greater the chance of larger hailstones.
- Hailstorms can occur with our without thunder, and can track great distances.
Indoor Safety
Whilst the safest place to be during a thunderstorm is indoors, there are several things to consider to further reduce the risk of damage and injury:
- Shut windows and external doors
- Secure or put indoors loose outdoor items that could blow around in high winds
- Stay away from taps, sinks, bathtubs, and showers. The metal pipework can act as a conductor for lightning.
- Avoid using a corded telephone. Lightning can be cinducted along the line. Mobile telephones are safe to use.
- Unplug electrical appliances such as televisions, and computers. Lightning strikes can cause power surges which may damage electrical equipment.
- Keep pets indoors
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