How to Prepare for Severe Thunderstorms

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Lightning strikes building during severe thunderstorm

Severe thunderstorms can strike at any time without notice. All thunderstorms are dangerous due to the production of lightning, but some can quickly become much more violent with flash flooding, damaging winds, hail, cloud-to-ground lightning, and even the occasional tornado. 

When a severe storm is on its way, you are not given much time to prepare. While some precautions should be taken with any thunderstorm, a severe thunderstorm warning suggests a more aggressive storm that needs to be taken seriously.

Dry thunderstorms are unique to our region of the country and cloud-to-ground lightning can spark wildfires. In severe storms that do produce heavy rainfall, we see the dangers of flash flooding. 

When a severe thunderstorm warning is issued for Fontana or the surrounding communities, it is important to take action immediately, as you only have a few minutes where it is safe for you to take action. 

The first step is to make sure your family has a plan for safety and that any outdoor activities are going to be delayed until the storm passes. If you must go outside to secure anything that may blow away and cause more damage, do so quickly if it is still safe to do so. 

If you are outside go into a home or building. If you are stuck outside away from structures, your safest option is to get into any hardtop vehicle until the storm passes.

Lightning is extremely unpredictable and always poses risks to individuals and properties. Take the precautions necessary to lower your risk of storm damage, and if disaster strikes, know that you can count on our professionals at SERVPRO of Fontana to help you make it “Like it never happened.”