Dangers of Thunderstorms

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service, a severe thunderstorm is one in which there are winds 58 mph or greater and ¾ inch hail or larger, and at times there may be tornadoes.  There are nearly 1,800 thunderstorms occurring at any one moment around the world, 100,000 of those happen in the United States. An estimated 10% of those 100,000 storms are considered to be severe.

Facts and Myths About Lightning

• MYTH: “Heat lightning” occurs after very hot summer days and poses no threat.
• FACT: “Heat lightning” is lightning that is occurring in a distant thunderstorm that is too far away to hear its associated thunder.
• MYTH: If it is not raining, there is no threat from lightning
• FACT: Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as ten miles away from rainfall.
• MYTH: Rubber soles of shoes and tires on a car will protect your from being stuck by lightning.
• FACT: This is false; these items proved NO protection from lightning. However, you are much safer in a vehicle than outside during a thunderstorm if you are not touch the metal.
• MYTH: In a pinch, it is safe to seek shelter under a tree.
• FACT: Contrary to common belief, it is not safe or advised to be under a tree during a storm, it is the second leading cause of injury. It is best to get indoors or crouch low to the ground.

How to Keep Safe:

• At the very first sign of a thunder or a storm, take action. Go indoors or seek shelter. 
• Stay away from windows and doors. Do not use a landline and unplug appliances, computers and other electronics. 
• Avoid showering, doing laundry or dishes. 
• Monitor and obey instructions of public safety officials. 
• If you are outside, shelter in a vehicle. Stay put and avoid touching metal. 
• If you are in an open area, go to a low place and stay away from trees.
• If you are on the water, get to land immediately. 
• Stay indoors at least 30 minutes after the last thunder or lightning.

What to do After a Thunderstorm:

• Continue to monitor emergency information.
• Call 911 to report downed power lines or gas leaks. If you suspect leaks in your home, go outdoors immediately. 
• Check your home for damage. Document any damage and contact your insurance company immediately.
• If you suspect water damage, call SERVPRO® of Greenville/Cleveland immediately.

If your home has received storm damage, give SERVPRO® of Greenville/Cleveland a call!  You can contact us at 662-846-1700.