Be aware of approaching thunderstorms: watch for darkened skies, lightning, or increasing wind. Don't talk on the telephone during a thunderstorm. Shut off and unplug your television set and computer, and unplug any lines that connect your computer to the telephone. Contrary to popular belief, lightning can strike more than once in the same place. Do not leave shelter until a storm has safely passed. If you are caught outdoors, avoid isolated trees in open areas and metal objects like wire fences and golf clubs. Stay away from bodies of water and fallen power lines. If no shelter is available, immediately move to the lowest accessible spot and crouch down with your hands on your knees. Do not lie down. Flash flooding, strong winds, hail, lightning and tornadoes can accompany thunderstorms. You and your family can prepare by printing and filling out the Duracell Preparedness Checklist and posting it in your home.
What is a thunderstorm? A thunderstorm is a violent atmospheric disturbance accompanied by lightning, thunder, heavy rain, strong gusts of wind, and (occasionally) by hail. Thunderstorms are sometimes referred to as "electrical storms." How do they form? Thunderstorms develop when moisture and unstable, rapidly rising warm air encounter a strong force like a warm or cold front, a sea breeze or a mountain. Lightning is an essential part of every thunderstorm, because it causes the thunder we hear. Where and when do they hit? Thunderstorms occur most frequently in areas close to the Equator. In the United States they are most common in the central and southern states during spring and summer months. Thunderstorms most often occur in the afternoon and evening, but can develop at any time of day.
Here's how to calculate the distance between you and a thunderstorm: When you see lightning, count the number of seconds until you hear the next roll of thunder. Then divide that number by 5 to learn how many miles away the lightning is from you.