At 4:41 p.m. on Tuesday, the National Weather Service issued an updated weather notice for Madison and Jackson counties, warning of heavy thunderstorms through 5:30 p.m.
Up to 40 mph wind gusts are possible for locals.
“At 4:41 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over New Market, or 8 miles east of Moores Mill, moving northeast at 20 mph,” according to the National Weather Service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.”
Moores Mill, Meridianville, Hazel Green, Owens Cross Roads, Huntland, Skyline, Gurley, New Market, Lincoln, and Pleasant Groves are among the areas affected by the alert.
According to the weather service, “If you’re outside, think about taking cover inside a building.” Alongside this storm is torrential rain, which could cause localized flooding. Avoid operating a car on flooded roads.
Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations
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.
Consider the following advice to keep yourself safe during a thunderstorm:
Plan for lightning safety:
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When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
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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.
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Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.
Indoor safety precautions:
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Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from 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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It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have 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 wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
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If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread 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 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.
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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.
Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads
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:
When it rains a lot, stay clear from parking or strolling near culverts or drainage ditches since the swift-moving water could carry you away.
Keep your distances from other vehicles safe:
Keep a safe distance from the automobile ahead of you by following the two-second rule, and give yourself an extra two seconds if it’s raining a lot.
Reduce your speed and drive carefully:
It’s crucial to slow down on wet roads. To avoid sliding, reduce the accelerator gradually and don’t brake suddenly.
Pick your lane carefully:
Water tends to pool in the outside lanes, so stick to the central ones.
Visibility is important.
Turn on your headlights to improve visibility in severe rain. Rain-stained windows can make it difficult to see cars in blind zones, so be especially alert for them.
Be cautious on slick roads:
Because of a combination of rain, oil, and grime, roadways are at their slickest during the first 30 minutes of precipitation. 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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