On Sunday at 4:49 p.m. the National Weather Service released an updated severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 5:15 p.m. for Lancaster County.
Update: Anticipate damaging winds with thunderstorms in Lancaster County Sunday – wind gusts up to 60 mphOn Sunday at 4:49 p.m. the National Weather Service released an updated severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 5:15 p.
m. for Lancaster County."At 4:48 p.m., a severe thunderstorm was located over Smithville, moving southeast at 10 mph," according to the weather service. "Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees." Locations impacted by the warning include Lancaster, Willow Street, Strasburg, Quarryville, Smithville, Lampeter, Atglen, Conestoga, Christiana, Georgetown, Kirkwood and Refton.When lightning looms: Expert safety tips for thunderstorms Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, mostly during the summer. It claims the lives of about 20 people annually, according to the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.Lightning safety plan: When venturing outdoors, it's vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning. Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it's an indication that lightning is nearby.Once you're indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors. These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities. It's important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees. If you're with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people. Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It's crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning. Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks. In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here's your guide from the weather service to staying safe during downpours:Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass with caution.Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots. When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position. In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey. Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service. If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.
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