Thunderstorms and lightning

What it is

Thunderstorms are common and can be dangerous. They can bring intense wind, flash flooding, hail and dangerous lightning. (Ready.gov — Thunderstorms & lightning)

In most places they can occur year-round and at any hour. (Ready.gov)

The National Weather Service says lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times a year and kills about 20 people in the U.S. each year, with hundreds more severely injured. (NWS — Lightning safety tips and resources)

Before

Sign up for your community's warning system. The Emergency Alert System and NOAA Weather Radio also carry alerts. (Ready.gov)

Cut down or trim trees that could fall on the house. Consider surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system. (Ready.gov)

Identify sturdy buildings close to where you live, work, study, and play. (Ready.gov)

During a warning

"When thunder roars, go indoors!" Move into a building or a car with a roof. (Ready.gov)

"There is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are in the area. If you hear thunder, you are likely within striking distance of the storm." (NWS — Lightning safety)

Avoid electronic devices connected to an outlet. Avoid running water. (Ready.gov)

Turn Around, Don't Drown: six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. (Ready.gov)

After

Wait for authorities and forecasts to say it's safe to go out; watch for flash-flood instructions. (Ready.gov)

Watch for fallen power lines and trees, and report them immediately. (Ready.gov)