Preparation is Key Before Violent Thunderstorms Strike

The deadly and destructive tornadoes which struck Massachusetts Wednesday were associated with a strong cold front which plowed into an extremely warm and humid air mass during the height of afternoon heating. Strong thunderstorms spawned at least three confirmed tornadoes. A Tornado Watch was issued for southwestern Connecticut early Wednesday afternoon, and even though severe weather remained to the North, any watch or warning issued by the National Weather Service must be taken seriously.

The hurricane season also began Wednesday, and the official start of Summer is less than three weeks away. Needless to say, it’s that time of the year again when thunderstorms become a staple in the seven-day forecast. Whether it’s the heat and humidity which bring late-afternoon “popcorn” thunderstorms, or a well-defined cold front advancing from the West that triggers cloud-to-ground lightning, thunderstorms are a seemingly regular feature in our late-Spring and Summertime weather forecast.

Thunderstorms certainly put on a fascinating show, complete with the flashing lightning and booming thunder, but they are dangerous, nonetheless. There are precautions you can take before, during, and after a thunderstorm to assure that you and your family remain safe.

Thunderstorms can appear just about anywhere, anytime during the Spring and Summer, especially when people are enjoying the outdoors. If you have plans to be outside for an extended period of time and thunderstorms are possible, make sure you check the forecast before leaving, watch for signs of approaching storms, keep an AM radio with you to hear the electrical static, and be prepared to move inside.

Before a thunderstorm strikes, make sure you have a flashlight and extra batteries, battery-operated portable radio, first aid kit and manual, non-electric can opener, essential medicines, and cash. If a thunderstorm should suddenly develop and you are outdoors, here are some guidelines to follow:

• Attempt to get into a building or hardtop car and keep the windows closed;
• If there isn’t a structure in the area, go to an open space and squat low to the ground. If you’re in the woods, find an area protected by a low clump of trees. Never stand beneath a large tree in the open;
• Kneel or crouch with your hands on your knees;
• Avoid tall structures, such as tall trees, fences, telephone lines, or power lines;
• Stay away from natural lightning rods, such as golf clubs, fishing rods, bicycles, or camping equipment;
• Stay away from rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water;
• If you’re boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter immediately;
• If you are isolated in an open field and feel your hair stand on end, that indicates lightning is about to strike. Drop to your knees and bend forward, put your hands on your knees, and do not lie flat on the ground.

If you are indoors:

• Do not take a bath or shower. Metal pipes can transmit electricity;;
• Turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressors;
• Avoid using the telephone since the lines conduct electricity;
• Do not handle any electrical equipment;
• Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest storm information.

If you are in a vehicle:

• Keep windows completely closed;
• Pull safely onto the shoulder of a road away from any trees that may fall;
• Avoid flooded roadways;
• Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers during heavy rain.

Our weather will remain pleasant and calm through tomorrow before some unsettled conditions arrive by the end of the weekend. There is a chance of a shower or thunderstorm later Sunday and Monday. High temperatures will remain in the 70s through the middle of next week.

Paul