At 5:42 p.m. on Saturday, the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning that remained valid until 6:30 p.m. The warning covered Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, and Sullivan counties.
According to forecasts, wind gusts as strong as 60 mph and hail measuring 1.25 inches in diameter – approximately the size of a half-dollar coin – are anticipated with the approaching storms.
The weather service reports that a severe thunderstorm is currently moving northeast at 25 mph from Muncy as of 5:42 p.m. According to the report, hail damage to vehicles is expected while wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees is also highly likely.
The warning has affected several locations, namely Montoursville, Muncy, Hughesville, Montgomery, Exchange, Biggertown, Lairdsville, Muncy Valley, Turbotville, Picture Rocks, and Eagles Mere. It covers a stretch of Interstate 180, specifically from mile markers 5 to 19.
The weather service advises people to remain indoors in a securely constructed building and to stay away from windows.
When lightning looms: Expert safety tips for thunderstorms
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During the summer months, lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times annually, posing a serious threat to human life. As reported by the weather service, lightning claims the lives of approximately 20 people each year. The danger of lightning is most pronounced when thunderstorms are nearby, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually decreasing as it moves away.
If you want to stay safe during a thunderstorm, it’s important to keep the following tips in mind:
1. Creating a plan for lightning safety:
It’s important to have a plan in place for lightning safety, especially if you live in an area prone to thunderstorms. This includes identifying safe locations for shelter and determining the best course of action in case of an emergency. It’s also important to educate yourself and others on the dangers of lightning and how to stay safe. By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself and those around you from the potential hazards of lightning strikes.
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- When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
- Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
- Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.
2. Safety Measures Indoors:
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- Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
- These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.
Wait for the all-clear: It’s essential to wait for the all-clear before assuming that a situation is safe. This is especially important during emergencies, such as natural disasters or terrorist attacks. The all-clear may come from emergency responders or local authorities. It’s important to follow their instructions and stay put until they give the okay to leave. Acting too soon can put yourself and others in danger. So, take a deep breath, stay calm, and wait until you receive the all-clear signal.
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- After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
- Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.
If you don’t have access to indoor shelter:
Maximize your safety if you happen to be outdoors during a thunderstorm by following these steps:
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- Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
- Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
- If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
- Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
- Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.
To stay safe from the danger of lightning, it is important to remain vigilant and prepared at all times. By adhering to these guidelines, you can greatly minimize the likelihood of lightning accidents and prioritize your personal safety.
When it comes to heavy rainfall, the roads we travel on can become quite hazardous. To stay safe, it’s important to stay informed and follow the tips provided by the weather service.
When it comes to being near bodies of water, it’s important to be cautious of rapid water flow. It can be very dangerous, and it’s not something to be taken lightly. Always pay attention to warning signs and take them seriously. Don’t assume that you can handle the current just because you’re a strong swimmer. Even the strongest swimmers can get caught in a strong current and be carried away. So be safe and stay away from areas with rapid water flow.
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- Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.
Keep a safe distance while driving:
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- Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.
Take it easy and remain vigilant:
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- If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.
Wisely choose your lane:
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- Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.
It’s crucial to understand the importance of visibility. Being visible means being seen, and in today’s fast-paced world, that can make all the difference. Whether it’s in the workplace or online, being visible can help you gain recognition, build relationships, and ultimately achieve your goals. When you’re visible, people are more likely to remember you and think of you when opportunities arise. So, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and make yourself known. Remember, visibility matters.
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- Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Be cautious when driving on slippery roads.
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- The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.
It’s important to maintain a safe distance from large vehicles on the road. This is especially true when driving behind them, as they have larger blind spots and may not be able to see you. Keeping a safe distance also allows you to have enough time to react if the vehicle suddenly stops or swerves. Remember to never cut in front of a large vehicle and give them plenty of room to maneuver. By practicing safe driving habits around large vehicles, you can help prevent accidents and keep yourself and others on the road safe.
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- Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.
Don’t forget about your windshield wipers:
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- Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
- If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
When it’s raining heavily, taking certain precautions can go a long way in keeping you safe while driving. It’s important to stay updated on the weather forecast and follow the advice of local officials to ensure a secure and smooth journey.
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