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, keep these recommendations in mind:<\/p>\n
Lightning safety plan:<\/p>\n
When venturing outdoors, it\u2019s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
\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 shelter promptly in a safe location, 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.
\nThese precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.<\/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.
\nLightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly 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, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
\nSteer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded 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 no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
\nDo not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not 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
Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall <\/p>\n
Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and\/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the NWS to stay safe in heavy rain:<\/p>\n
Beware of rapid water flow:<\/p>\n
During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.<\/p>\n
Maintain safe driving distances:<\/p>\n
Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.<\/p>\n
Slow down and drive with care:<\/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
Stay toward the middle lanes \u2013 water tends to pool in the outside lanes.<\/p>\n
Visibility matters:<\/p>\n
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.<\/p>\n
Watch out for slippery roads:<\/p>\n
The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.<\/p>\n
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:<\/p>\n
Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass with caution.<\/p>\n
Mind your windshield wipers:<\/p>\n
Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.<\/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