Dangerous Weather Tips

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

With the spring season comes lush green lawns and warmer sunny days. However, spring is also the prime season for severe weather such as tornadoes, thunderstorms and flash floods. There are steps that can be taken to help ensure your safety if dangerous weather is predicted in your community. 

Although tornadoes can happen anytime throughout the year, however there are 3 months when they more likely to occur: April, May and June, a transition time when unsettled weather is more likely to occur. The following are a few safety steps that can be taken to be ready if a tornado warning is issued is your area:

• Know what your community’s warning system is.

• Choose a safe room in your home for your family to meet if a tornado is headed your way. This room should be a basement (most Texas homes don't have basements), storm cellar, or interior room on the lowest floor and should have no windows. 

• Prepare your lawn for strong winds by removing any damaged limbs from trees and making sure your lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants, etc. are secured.

Thunderstorms are also common in the spring and can produce very dangerous lightning. A few thunderstorm safety tips recommended by the American Red Cross are:

• Where there is thunder, there is lightning! If thunder can be heard, then you are close enough to be in danger of lightning strikes. Go indoors!

• Postpone any outdoor activities, such as sporting events and picnics until the storm passes. It is possible to get struck by lightning even if it is not raining.

• Take shelter in a building or vehicle with windows closed and stay clear of the windows.

• Do not shower or bathe during a thunderstorm.

Flash floods occur suddenly when water rises rapidly along a stream or low-lying area. Below are some safety steps recommended in the event of flooding:

• Be prepared to evacuate and head for higher ground.

• Stay away from floodwaters.

• Do not drive on flooded streets.

• Be especially cautious at night when it is more difficult to recognize flood danger.

While severe weather can be frightening, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of the ones you love, by being prepared and taking precautions.