Other Storms

Thunder storms and winter snowstorms can do a certain amount of damage. It a good idea to be prepared, especially if you live in an area where they happen frequently. Thunderstorms can bring heavy rain (which can cause flash flooding), strong winds, hail, lightning and tornadoes. Lightning is a major threat during a thunderstorm. Many people are struck and killed by lightning each year. Some people think that lightning can’t strike twice in the same place. That’s not true, lightning can strike several times in one place in the course of one discharge. The state with the highest number of thunderstorms is Florida.
A major winter storm can be deadly. Preparing for cold weather conditions and responding to them effectively can reduce the dangers caused by winter storms. Some things to keep in mind are, wind chill is how cold it feels outside when temperature and wind speed are combined. A strong wind combined with a temperature just below freezing can be dangerous. When a winter storm watch is announced, this means that severe winter weather may affect your area. When a winter storm warning is announced, this means that severe winter weather conditions are definitely on the way. A blizzard warning means that large amounts of snow or blowing snow and winds of at least 35 miles per hour are expected for the next several hours. For details on these storms go to the specific menu.

• Lightning is a major threat during thunderstorms.
• Wind chill can make winter storms deadly.
• Winterize your home ahead of time.