Locations impacted by the alert include Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine, Garden Grove, western Corona, Orange, Fullerton, Costa Mesa, Mission Viejo, Chino, Tustin, Yorba Linda, Stanton, Newport Beach, Westminster, Chino Hills, La Habra, Fountain Valley, Placentia and Rancho Santa Margarita.<\/p>\n
According to the NWS, \u201cIf outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.\u201d<\/p>\n
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\nShielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines<\/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 a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.<\/p>\n
Indoors safety measures:<\/p>\n
Once you\u2019ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching 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.
\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 without 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 with a group, ensure individuals are spread 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. 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
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 rapid water flow:<\/p>\n
In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.<\/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
On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the accelerator gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.<\/p>\n
Choose your lane wisely:<\/p>\n
Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.<\/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
If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.<\/p>\n
In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.<\/p>\n