The warning applied to Lancaster and York counties.
“The storm that triggered the warning has weakened below the critical threshold and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property. Therefore, the warning is being lifted. However, light hail, gusty winds and heavy rain are still possible with this storm,” the National Weather Service said.
How to protect yourself from lightning strikes: Safety tips from experts
In the United States, lightning strikes occur approximately 25 million times each year, with most of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, according to the National Weather Service, approximately 20 people are killed by lightning each year. The danger from lightning increases as thunderstorms approach, reaching its peak when the storm is directly overhead and gradually diminishing as it moves away.
To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, follow these recommendations:
Lightning protection plan:
- When you are outdoors, it is important to have a clear plan for seeking shelter in the event of a lightning strike.
- Watch the sky for ominous signs and listen for sounds of thunder. If thunder is heard, it is an indication that lightning is nearby.
- Find a safe shelter, preferably indoors.
Indoor safety measures:
- Avoid using corded telephones, electrical appliances or plumbing indoors and stay away from windows and doors.
- Lightning can follow conductive paths and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.
Wait for the all-clear:
- Wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning strike or clap of thunder before resuming outdoor activities.
- Remember that lightning can still strike even after a storm appears to have passed, so be careful.
If no shelter is available in the house:
If you are outdoors during a thunderstorm and do not have access to shelter, take the following steps to maximize your safety:
- Avoid open fields, hilltops or ridges where the risk of lightning strikes is greater.
- Stay away from tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
- If you are traveling in a group, make sure that everyone keeps a sufficient distance from each other to prevent the lightning current from being transmitted between people.
- Camping outdoors during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no other options, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying area. It is important to note that a tent does not provide protection from lightning strikes.
- Do not approach bodies of water, wet objects, or metal objects. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they are good conductors of electricity and can pose significant risks.
In summary, vigilance and preparation are your best allies when you are at risk of being struck by lightning. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning accidents and put your safety first.
Rain showers on the roads: Important safety tips for heavy rain
In heavy rain, safety is paramount. Follow these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid danger:
Be careful in case of flooding:
Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as fast-flowing water may sweep you away during heavy rain.
Keep the safety distance:
Follow the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds to compensate for reduced traction and braking.
Slow down and be careful:
When it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and reduce the speed gradually. Never brake suddenly, otherwise the car may skid.
Choose your lane carefully:
Stay in the middle lanes as water often collects in the outside lanes.
Prioritize visibility
Improve your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Pay particular attention to vehicles in your blind spot, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Be careful of slippery roads:
During the first half hour of rain, the roads are at their most slippery due to a mixture of rain, dirt and oil. Be especially careful during this time.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Do not drive too close behind large trucks or buses. The spray created by their large tires will limit your visibility. Also be careful when overtaking; if you must overtake, do so quickly and safely.
Pay attention to your windshield wipers:
Overworked wiper blades can reduce visibility. If rain severely reduces your visibility, pull over to the side of the road and wait for conditions to improve. Seek shelter in rest areas or sheltered areas.
If you can only stop at the side of the road, position your vehicle as far from the road as possible, ideally behind guard rails. Leave your headlights on and activate your hazard lights to alert other drivers to your position.
By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risks and ensure your well-being during heavy rain. Stay informed about weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities to ensure your trip is safe and unharmed.
Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service from United Robots that uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
