Severe Thunderstorm Safety: Protect Yourself Now!

Seek immediate shelter indoors in a sturdy building away from windows. Unplug electronic devices and avoid using phones or water. If outdoors, get to a low-lying area and avoid trees, hills, and metal objects. Monitor weather alerts.

Severe thunderstorms can bring high winds, hail, heavy rain, flash flooding, and dangerous lightning. These can cause power outages, downed trees, property damage, and injuries. Strong winds can also uproot trees and damage structures.

Check for damage to your property, avoid downed power lines, and be cautious of fallen trees and debris. Report any power outages or damage to your utility company and local authorities. If you see downed lines, treat them as live and stay away.

Develop an emergency plan including having a supply of water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit. Keep your phone charged. Know where your safe room is and how to reach it quickly. Monitor weather forecasts regularly.

If you cannot reach a building immediately, find a low-lying area, away from trees and metal objects. Crouch down and cover your head to protect yourself from hail and lightning. Get indoors as soon as it is safe to do so. Avoid bodies of water.