BE PREPARED FOR SEVERE WEATHER

During spring in Georgia, there is an increased threat in severe thunderstorms. Thunderstorms are dangerous because they can produce strong winds, lightning, tornadoes, hail and flash flooding.

Keep your family safe by understanding the primary threats during a thunderstorm.

Before a Thunderstorm:
Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify a thunderstorm hazard:

• ​ A severe thunderstorm watch means there is the potential for severe thunderstorms (damaging winds/large hail) to impact your area within the next 6 hours.
• A severe thunderstorm warning means a severe thunderstorm is occurring or will likely occur soon. If you are advised to take shelter, do so immediately.
   
  *Note, a severe thunderstorm refers to a thunderstorm producing winds of 58 mph or greater, 1-inch (quarter) sized hail or larger, and/or a tornado.

 During a Thunderstorm:

•  If there is a thunderstorm in the area, go quickly inside a home, building, or hard top automobile, if possible.
• If shelter is not available, go to the lowest area nearby.
• Listen to a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio or radio for the latest updates.
• Avoid taking a shower or a bath during a thunderstorm.
• Do not use electrical items such as computers or television sets as power surges from lightning can cause serious damage http://ready.ga.gov/be-informed/thunderstorms-and-lightning.

 ​After a Thunderstorm:

After the storm passes remember to:

• ​Never drive through a flooded roadway. Turn around, don’t drown!
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of thunderstorms.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately to your local power company.