How to Survive Dangerous Thunderstorms

Arizona is home to many weather dangers. Thunderstorms are regular events in our seasonal weather. They can bring high winds, heavy rains and dangerous lightning. However, there are things you can do in advance to stay safe when these storms hit.

Prepare to Protect Your Family

If a thunderstorm is likely in your area, follow these simple tips:

1. Postpone outdoor activities.
   
   
2. Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside in the storm.
   
   
3. Rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
   
   
4. Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
   
   
5. Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
   
   
6. Do not shower or bathe. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
   
   
7. Use a corded telephone only for emergencies. Cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use.
   
   
8. Unplug appliances and other electrical items (such as computers) and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
   
   
9. Use your battery-operated or hand crank NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.

If You Are Outdoors

1. In a forest, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees. Avoid the tallest trees.
   
   
2. In an open area, go to a low place like a ravine or valley, but watch for flooding.
   
   
3. On open water, get to land and find shelter immediately.
   
   
4. If you feel your hair stand on end a lightning strike is about to happen:
       - Squat low but don't lie down.
       - Place your hands over your ears and head between your knees.
       - Make yourself the smallest possible target.

During a Storm, Avoid These Hazards

• Natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area
  
  
• Hilltops, open fields, the beach, or a boat on the water
  
  
• Isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas
  
  
• Anything metal—farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, or bicycles

For more information on thunderstorm preparedness, check "Are You Ready?" from FEMA

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