Now is the time to sit-down with your family and go over your Severe Weather plan - what to do during a Tornado Watch / Warning or Thunderstorm Watch / Warning.
Remember - a WATCH indicates there is a possibility of a dangerous storm / tornado and plan accordingly.
a WARNING indicates there is immediate danger and you should take shelter IMMEDIATELY!!
If a tornado warning is issued and your in a house with a basement go there immediately, if you don't have access to a basement, tornado safe room / storm cellar seek shelter on the lowest floor in the smallest central room (bathroom or closet), under a stairwell, or in a interior hallway with no windows. Get as low as possible and cover your head with your hands. STAY AWAY FROM WINDOWS!!
If you happen to be outdoors during a Tornado Warning, if all possible go inside a sturdy building, but if you must remain outside lie flat and face-down on low ground, protecting the back of your head with your arms. Get as far away from trees and cars as possible. Don't Panic!
During a Thunderstorm watch or warning it's always best to stay indoors. Prepare for the possibility of dangerous winds and hail and heavy rain. With thunderstorms comes the possibility of localized flooding, areas that never flood could flood during heavy rain. Avoid driving through water over the roadway, you don't know what type of debris could be in the water nor if the road has washed away.
It's always best to stay inside up to 30 min after a watch or warning has expired, always remain alert for the possibility of power lines being down or other debris in your yard.
Remember if you see water over the roadway - TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN!!
Remember - when thunder roars go indoors!
If you can hear thunder, then you are within 10 miles of the storm and could be struck by lightning.
The Drexel Fire Department will do our best to try and keep everyone informed of any approaching severe weather, but we can't always be available to do so. We highly recommend you purchase a severe weather radio, it will alert you of the possibility of severe weather in your area.
If you're not able to purchase a weather radio, please stay tuned to your local weather provider by am / fm radio, Tv or social media for updates.
Courtesy of the Drexel Fire Department Facebook Page
Courtesy of the Drexel Fire Department Facebook Page
