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All thunderstorms are dangerous because every thunderstorm produces lightning. Lightning can kill or seriously hurt people. Thunderstorms are also dangerous because they can lead to flash floods.
Visit the FEMA library to download more facts about Thunderstorms and Lightning
Before
- Build an emergency kit.
- Make a family communications plan.
- Remember if you hear thunder roar go indoors. Stay inside for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
During
- Stay inside.
- Don’t use items that plug into electrical outlets. Power surges from lightening can come through the cords and be dangerous.
- Don’t wash your hands, take a bath or take a shower. Faucets can conduct electricity.
- Stay away from windows and doors.
- Don’t lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls. They conduct electricity.
- Don’t touch anything metal outside – bikes, playgrounds, fences.
- Stay away from open fields, hills, or the beach.
- Don’t stand near “lightening rods” like tall trees in an open area, or a flagpole.
After
- Stay away from loose or dangling power lines.
- Stay away from areas damaged by the storm or flood waters.
Thunderstorms and lightening happen everywhere, but dry thunderstorms that don’t produce rain are most common in the Western U.S. They usually occur in the summer when it’s warm and humid.
Electrocution
Death caused by electric shock, like a lightning strike
Power Surge
A spike, or huge, quick increase, in the amount of electricity coming through a power line
Heat Lightning
Lightning seen from a thunderstorm that is too far away for the thunder to be heard