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The NWS Hanford CA issued an updated severe thunderstorm warning at 6:32 p.m. on Thursday in effect until 7:30 p.m. for Madera and Merced counties.
Wind gusts of up to 70 mph and quarter-sized hail (1 inch) are anticipated.
“At 6:32 p.m., a severe thunderstorm was located 9 miles southwest of Chowchilla, or 16 miles west of Madera, moving northeast at 15 mph,” according to the NWS. “Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect considerable tree damage. Wind damage is also likely to mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings.”
The warning is for Chowchilla.
The NWS states, “Remain alert for a possible tornado! Tornadoes can develop quickly from severe thunderstorms. If you spot a tornado go at once into the basement or small central room in a sturdy structure. For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building. Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.”
This warning is in effect until 7:30 p.m.
What to do as threat of lightning approaches?
Lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times a year. Most of the strikes occur in the summer, killing 20 people each year, according to the NWS. Chance of lightning increases as a thunderstorm approaches and peaks when the storm is overhead. It diminishes as the storm moves away.
Here are suggestions for staying safe during a thunderstorm:
To reduce the chance of being struck by lightning, when venturing outside, have a plan to get to a safer area.If the sky becomes menacing and thunder becomes audible, seek out a safe place to seek shelter.Once indoors, avoid touching corded phones, electrical equipment, plumbing, and windows and doors.Wait 30 minutes after the last lightning or thunder before going back outside.
If finding indoor shelter is not an option:
Avoid open fields, the top of a hill, or a ridge top.Stay away from tall, isolated trees or other tall objects. If you are in a forest, stay near a lower stand of trees.When in a group, space out to prevent the current from transferring between individuals.If you are camping in an open space, choose a valley, ravine, or low area for your campsite. Remember, tents do not shield you from lightning.Do not approach water, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively.Rainy weather driving tips Switch on headlights – Even during daylight hours, using headlights can enhance visibility and signal your presence to other drivers.While on the road – Opt for the middle lanes and remain on higher ground. Rainwater tends to gather along the road edges.Steer clear of puddles – Driving into puddles or low areas of rainwater can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control.Do not follow large vehicles closely – Large vehicles like trucks or buses can create a spray of water that can reduce your visibility.Steer clear of flooded areas – When coming to a flooded road, turn around and head back. Flash flooding currents are strong and can sweep drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle’s mechanical and electrical systems.
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning is when a vehicle starts uncontrollably sliding on wet roads.
This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle’s weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is primarily caused by three factors:
Vehicle speed – When a vehicle’s speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.Water depth – The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn’t matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.Tire tread depth – Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.
In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here’s what to know:
Ease off the accelerator – Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.Turn into the skid – Turning into the skid can help the vehicle’s tires realign to regain control.Make sure the tires reconnect with the road – During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.Brake gently as needed – Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.
Source: The National Weather Service
United Robots California
This story was originally published April 9, 2026 at 5:33 PM.