Public Safety
Kent State University Emergency Guide | Kent Campus
Kent State University Emergency Guide | Kent Campus
Part II: Natural Disasters and Public Emergencies
Thunderstorms and Lightning
All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous. Other hazards associated with thunderstorms include tornadoes, strong winds, hail, and flash flooding.Facts About Thunderstorms
- They may occur singly, in clusters, or in lines
- Some of the most severe occur when a single thunderstorm affects one location for an extended period of time
- Thunderstorms typically produce heavy rain for a brief period of 30 minutes to an hour
- Warm, humid conditions are highly favorable for thunderstorms development
- Approximately 10% of thunderstorms are classified as “severe” – one that produces hail at least three-quarters of an inch in diameter, has winds of 58 miles per hour or higher, or produces a tornado
Facts about Lightning
- Lightning’s unpredictability increases the risk to individuals and property
- Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles from any rainfall
- “Heat lightning” is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far away to be heard
- Most deaths from lightning occur when people are caught outdoors in the summer months during the afternoon or evening
- The chances of a person being struck by lightning are estimated at 1 in 3,000
- Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be helped immediately
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
The National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm watch when severe thunderstorms are likely to occur.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning
A warning indicates imminent danger to life and property of those in the path of the storm.
During a Thunderstorm
The National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm watch when severe thunderstorms are likely to occur.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning
A warning indicates imminent danger to life and property of those in the path of the storm.
During a Thunderstorm
- Get inside a home, building, or hardtop vehicle. Although injuries may occur if a vehicle is struck, a person is much safer inside the vehicle than outside it.
- Avoid showering or bathing as metal bathroom plumbing and fixtures can conduct electricity causing shock or electrocution
- Use a corded phone only for emergencies – cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use
- Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers, stereos, televisions and air conditioners – power surges can cause serious damage
- Use a battery-operated radio for weather updates
If outdoors:
- Avoid objects that can act as a lightning rod
- Seek shelter in a low lying area such as a ravine or valley
- Be alert to the possibility of flash floods
- If on open water, get to shore and find shelter immediately
- Remember that when hair stands on end (anywhere on the body) it is an indication that lightning is about to strike – when this happens, squat down minimizing contact with the ground
- Do not lie flat on the ground
Additional information is available on the following website:
National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration at http://www.noaa.gov/
National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration at http://www.noaa.gov/
