Severe weather like electrical storms and tornadoes may require you to take precautions to avoid injury. Get to know the best shelter options in your workspace so that you can keep yourself safe until the severe weather passes.
Severe lightning – What do to in an electrical storm
Potential safety threats during an electrical storm include lightning, high winds and heavy rainfall. In the case of a severe electrical storm:
- If you are outside and cannot find shelter, avoid hilltops, rooftops, utility poles, trees, open water and open fields. Avoid contact with anything metal.
- If you are caught outdoors, do not lie flat on the ground. Crouch low to the ground and remain on the balls of your feet. Put your head between your knees and cover your ears with your hands.
- If you are indoors, unplug appliances and electrical items to avoid power surges from lightning.
- Continue to monitor local weather reports. Don’t go outside until 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.
Tornado warnings – Know what to do ahead of time!
If a tornado watch turns into a warning, respond immediately. Do not wait until you physically see a tornado to react.
- Seek indoor shelter in the lowest level possible, in an interior room or hallway. Think “down” and “in.”
- Avoid elevators, windows, doors, and large freestanding structures like auditoriums and gymnasiums.
- Crouch near the floor or under heavy, well-supported objects.
- Cover your head with your hands and arms. Watch out for flying debris.
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From the Office of Emergency Management
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