Thunderstorms typically produce heavy rain for a brief period from 30 minutes to one hour
Warm, humid conditions are highly favorable for thunderstorm development
About 10% of thunderstorms are classified as severe - one that produces hail at least 0.75" in diameter, has winds of 58 mph or higher produces a tornado
Lightning Facts
Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall
Heat lightning is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far away for thunder to be heard; however, the storm may be moving in your direction
Most lightning deaths and injuries occur when people are caught outdoors during summer months during the afternoon or evening
Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be attended to immediately
Protective Measures
Get inside a home, building, or hard-top automobile. You are much safer inside a vehicle than outside
Rubber-soled shoes provide no protection from lightning
Avoid showering or bathing; Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity
Unplug appliances and other electrical items; Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage
Avoid tall, isolated trees, open areas, water, and anything metal, including motorcycles, golf carts, farm equipment, and bicycles
If outside, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees
Go to a low place such as a ravine or valley, but be sure to watch for flash flooding
If you feel your hair stand on end, which indicates that lightning is about to strike, squat low on the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. Make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize your contact with the ground. Do not lie flat on the ground.