Tips on Staying Safe During Florida Thunderstorms

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can be dangerous in North Florida, even in winter months.

Thunderstorms are extremely common in Florida and can be extremely dangerous, even in winter months. Severe thunderstorms have even higher winds, plus hail and/or tornadoes. Lightning, hail, flooding, high winds, reduced visibility, and slick roadways associated with these storms cause millions of dollars in property damage, injuries, and deaths every year.

Before A Storm

Pay attention to weather forecasts. Removed dead or rotten trees and branches that can fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm. Secure outdoor items that can blow around or become damaging projectiles in gusty high winds. 

If A Thunderstorm Is Likely

Postpone outdoor activities and stay out of the water. Rubberized soled shoes provide no protection from lightning. Go into a sturdy building or hard topped vehicle. Close/shutter windows and exterior doors. Do not touch anything metal. Turn on your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio so you can get alerts about hail and tornadoes.

During A Storm

If you are driving and cannot pull over to wait for a storm to pass, then slow down and turn on your low beam headlights so others can see you. Do NOT use flashers/hazard lights unless you are parked. Indoors, keep away from doors and windows. Lightning can travel through the wire and pipes in walls. Do not use electronic appliances or land-line telephones and consider unplugging televisions and other expensive electronic devices so they won’t be damaged by possible power surge. 

After A Storm

The threat of lightning is still high. Wait 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before resuming outdoor activities.

If you or someone you know have storm damage and water is intruding into your house, call SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/ Jacksonville Northeast at 904.729.2401.