Locations impacted by the alert include Mount Pinos, Lockwood Valley, Alamo Mountain, Interstate 5 over the Grapevine, Gorman, Frazier Mountain, Pyramid Lake and Highway 33 from Lockwood Valley Road to the Santa Barbara County line.<\/p>\n
The NWS said, \u201cIf outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Torrential rainfall is also occurring with these storms and may lead to localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.\u201d<\/p>\n
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\nStaying safe as lightning approaches: Expert advice<\/p>\n
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 NWS. 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.<\/p>\n
To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, consider the following recommendations:<\/p>\n
Lightning safety plan:<\/p>\n
When venturing outdoors, it\u2019s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
\nMonitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it\u2019s an indication that lightning is nearby.
\nSeek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.<\/p>\n
Indoors safety measures:<\/p>\n
Once you\u2019re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
\nLightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.<\/p>\n
Wait for the all-clear:<\/p>\n
After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
\nIt\u2019s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.<\/p>\n
When indoor shelter isn\u2019t available:<\/p>\n
If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:<\/p>\n
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
\nSteer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
\nIf you\u2019re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
\nCamping 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\u2019s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
\nDo not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don\u2019t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads <\/p>\n
When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the NWS to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:<\/p>\n
Beware of swollen waterways:<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Maintain safe driving distances:<\/p>\n
The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.<\/p>\n
Reduce speed and drive cautiously:<\/p>\n
If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.<\/p>\n
Choose your lane wisely:<\/p>\n
Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.<\/p>\n
Visibility matters:<\/p>\n
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.<\/p>\n
Watch out for slippery roads:<\/p>\n
The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.<\/p>\n
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so with caution.<\/p>\n
Mind your windshield wipers:<\/p>\n
Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.<\/p>\n