NYC Under Severe Thunderstorm Watch: What You Need to Know

NYC Braces for Severe Thunderstorms: Safety Tips for Staying Safe

The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for New York City and surrounding areas until Sunday night. The watch covers the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island, as well as Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties.

Lightning Safety: What You Need to Know

Lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times each year, mostly during the summer months. While it's important to stay aware of the weather, staying safe during a thunderstorm is paramount.

Here's how to stay safe during a thunderstorm:

• Monitor the sky: Watch for ominous clouds and listen for thunder. If you hear thunder, you're close enough to be struck by lightning.
• Seek shelter: If you're outdoors, find shelter immediately. A sturdy building is the best option.
• Indoors: Avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, or plumbing fixtures. Stay away from windows and doors.
• Stay inside: After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before venturing back outside.

If you're caught outdoors without shelter:

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests.
• Stay away from tall, isolated trees.
• If you're in a group, spread out.
• Don't approach water, wet objects, or metal items.

Rainy Roadways: Driving Safe in Heavy Rain

Heavy rain can make driving hazardous. Here's what you need to know to stay safe while driving in heavy rain:

• Beware of rapid water flow: Avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches.
• Maintain safe distances: Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
• Reduce speed: Slow down and drive cautiously.
• Choose your lane wisely: Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning.
• Enhance visibility: Turn on your headlights to improve visibility.
• Watch out for slippery roads: The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest.
• Keep a safe distance from large vehicles: Large vehicles can reduce visibility with tire spray.
• Mind your windshield wipers: Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over to the side of the road.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe!

Remember, staying informed about the weather is crucial to staying safe. Check local weather forecasts and heed any warnings issued by local authorities. Be prepared and stay safe!