At 6:59 p.m. on Thursday, the National Weather Service issued an updated severe thunderstorm warning for Washington County, which was in force until 7:45 p.m.
Wind gusts of up to 60 mph could be expected, so residents should be ready.
According to the meteorological service, “a severe thunderstorm was located over Valley Grove at 6:59 p.m., moving east at 5 mph.” “Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”
The following locations are affected by the warning: Clearview, Valley Grove, Shadyside, McMechen, Glen Dale, Bridgeport, Benwood, Yorkville, West Finley, Claysville, Brookside, West Alexander, Neffs, Taylorstown, Bellaire, Warwood, Bethlehem, Triadelphia, Wheeling, and Martins Ferry.
“Avoid windows and seek shelter inside a sturdy building,” the weather agency advises. Winds from this storm have the potential to cause damage. This storm is also bringing torrential rains, which might cause flash floods. Avoid operating a car on flooded roads.
Preparing for approaching lightning: Expert safety advice
Approximately 25 million lightning strikes occur in the United States annually, with the majority of these electrical discharges taking place in the summer. Unfortunately, according to the weather service, lightning kills roughly 20 people every year. As thunderstorms approach, the likelihood of lightning-related incidents increases, peaking when the storm is directly overhead. But as the tempest sweeps away, it gradually fades away.
Think about the following suggestions to make sure you’re safe during a thunderstorm.:
Plan for lightning safety:
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When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
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Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
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Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.
Indoor safety precautions:
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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.
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Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.
Hold off till the all-clear:
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After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
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Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.
When there is no indoor shelter:
Take these precautions to increase your safety if you are outside during a thunderstorm without access to inside shelter:
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Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
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Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
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If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
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Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
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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.
In conclusion, being alert and ready are your best defenses against lightning threats. You may put your safety first and drastically lower the likelihood of lightning-related mishaps by adhering to these rules.
Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain
There is a greater chance of floods and dangerous roadways when it rains a lot. The weather service has provided the following advice to help you keep safe during downpours:
Watch out for flooding rivers:
Avoid parking or strolling close to culverts or drainage ditches during periods of intense precipitation, as the swift-moving water can be quite dangerous.
Keep your distances from other vehicles safe:
In heavy rain, the two-second rule of following distance is your friend. To guarantee safe spacing under unfavorable circumstances, increase it to four seconds.
Slow down and drive carefully:
Lowering your speed is essential on wet roads. To prevent skidding, gently release the gas pedal and refrain from applying sudden braking.
Pick your lane carefully:
Water tends to pool in the outside lanes, so stick to the central ones.
Put visibility first.
Turn on your headlights to improve visibility in severe rain. Rain-stained windows can hide cars in blind zones, so be cautious.
Be cautious on slick roads:
Roads are slickest during the first half-hour of rain because of a combination of rain, oil, and filth. Be especially careful during this time.
Stay a safe distance away from big cars:
Tire spray from big vehicles and buses can make it harder to see. Pass them quickly and safely, and refrain from tailgating.
Be mindful of your wipers:
Visibility may be hampered by overloaded wiper blades. If the rain significantly impairs your vision, stop and wait for the weather to clear up. Seek cover in safe spaces or rest zones.
Position your car as far off the road as you can, preferably beyond guardrails, if stopping by the side of the road is your only choice. To let other cars know where you are, turn on your emergency flashers and keep your headlights on.
Taking these safety measures will significantly improve your road safety while it’s raining a lot. For a safe trip, keep yourself updated on weather conditions and follow local authorities’ instructions.
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