Summer can bring with it sunny days, but it can also bring thunderstorms and flooding. Severe weather poses some risks if you aren’t prepared. Stay safe and prepare for any severe weather that could impact Virginia this summer.
Take these three steps to be prepared:
- Have a plan. Discuss with your family what to do and where to go if severe weather strikes. You can even make your plan online.
- Build an emergency kit. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. For more information about how to build a kit and where to store it, visit gov.
- Stay informed. Get a weather radio or use the FEMA app. Make sure you have a way to get reliable, timely alerts. Know what the difference between watch vs. warning.
It’s also important to understand the different types of severe weather that could impact you.
Thunderstorms and Lightning
Thunderstorms might seem routine, but they can escalate quickly. Clear skies can turn dark and ominous bringing strong wind and lightning. Strong winds can blow around tree branches and other loose objects. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from a storm.
Follow these tips to stay safe during thunderstorms and lightning.
- Trim trees and pick up loose items before a storm.
- Get inside (and bring your pets) at the first sign of thunder or lightning. When thunder roars, go indoors!
- Stay away from windows once inside.
- Do NOT use anything connected to an electrical outlet, such as computers or other electronic equipment.
- Stay out of the shower and away from other plumbing, including washing dishes.
- Stay inside 30 minutes after the last sign of thunder or lightning.
If you cannot seek shelter indoors:
- avoid going near water,
- stay away from tall trees, and
- do not seek shelter near metal objects such as fences or bleachers.
If a person is struck by lightning, call 911 immediately.
Flooding and Flash Flooding
Floods are the most common disaster in the United States. Floodwater and standing water can be dangerous and can make you vulnerable to infectious diseases, chemical hazards and injuries.
Follow these guidelines to stay safe during flooding:
- Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwaters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
- Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
- Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
Tornadoes
Tornadoes can strike quickly, with little or no warning. They can happen anytime and anywhere. Tornadoes look like funnels and bring intense winds of more than 200 miles per hour. The best way to stay safe during a tornado is to be prepared.
Be alert to changing weather conditions and know where to go to be safe.
If inside:
- Shelter in storm shelters and basements.
- If no basement, shelter in an interior room or hallway without windows on the lowest possible floor.
- Do not remain in a mobile home during a tornado.
- Stay inside until you are certain the storm has passed.
If you are outside:
- Seek shelter in a sturdy structure immediately.
- Drive to the nearest shelter, if safely possible.
- If not, find a ditch or low area that is away from trees and other objects that could become projectiles.
- Do not seek shelter underneath a bridge or overpass.
Remember take action now to ensure your safety during severe weather.