Natural Disasters/Thunderstorm
Thunderstorms are a common weather event in many parts of the world. While dangerous, with proper preparation and precautions, they can be easily handled.
Preparation
[edit | edit source]Long Term
[edit | edit source]- Ensure your buildings have properly installed lightning rods, and ideally a complete lightning protection system.[1]
- Be ready for strong winds associated with thunderstorms.[2]
Just before a storm
[edit | edit source]- Unplug electronics prior to storm, especially if they are ungrounded.
- Bring any animals inside, and ensure they are calmed.
- If outside, seek shelter immediately inside a building or metal roofed car.[3]
During
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What to do
[edit | edit source]Stay inside if possible.
Stay away from windows and avoid touching plumbing and electrical or gas appliances for the duration of the storm.[3]
Common Mistakes
[edit | edit source]Trees
[edit | edit source]Do not take shelter under a tree. While the tree will likely be a tall enough object to channel lightning, the resulting strike will likely harm anyone near the tree.[3]
References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "Lightning Rods". www.weather.gov. US Department of Commerce - NOAA. Retrieved 3 October 2021.
- ↑ "Thunderstorms". Transport Canada. Transport Canada. 19 January 2010. Retrieved 16 October 2021.
- ↑ a b c "Lightning Myths". www.weather.gov. US Department of Commerce - NOAA. Retrieved 3 October 2021.