Thunderstorms are dangerous. They can produce lightning, tornadoes, wind, hail, and flash flooding. When there's a severe thunderstorm risk, the National Weather Service issues alerts. Sign up to receive emergency alerts.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch: severe thunderstorms* possible
Severe Thunderstorm Warning: severe thunderstorms are happening or are about to happen
*Severe Thunderstorm: winds of 58 mph or more and/or hail one inch in diameter or bigger
Prepare for a storm
Preparing your home and neighborhood before a storm can help reduce potential damage.
- Cut down or trim trees that may be in danger of falling on your home.
- Consider buying surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system to protect your home, appliances, and electronic devices.
During thunderstorms & lightning
Seek shelter from wind & lightning
- Get inside a home, building, or car.
- You're much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
Avoid contact with electricity & plumbing
- Don't touch electrical equipment or cords that are plugged in.
- Don't wash your hands, shower, or wash dishes. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
Avoid flood waters
- Move to higher ground.
- Don’t walk or drive through flood waters.
- If water rises around your car, abandon the car immediately.