... Review of severe weather safety rules...
an outbreak of severe thunderstorms is expected across portions of
eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas later today. Residents across
the region should monitor this situation very closely. Watches and
warnings will likely be issued later today. Here are some safety
rules to keep in mind when severe weather is expected or is
occurring.
Before severe weather strikes... ensure that you and your family
are fully prepared. In a home or building have a pre-designated
shelter... such as a basement or an interior room or hallway.
Have on hand a disaster supply kit... including a NOAA Weather
Radio... flashlight... radio and a good supply of batteries.
If a severe thunderstorm or Tornado Warning is issued... seek shelter
indoors immediately. A severe thunderstorm is defined as producing
quarter size or greater hail and wind gusts of 58 mph or more. In
extreme cases... severe thunderstorms can produce winds to near 150
mph and hail larger than grapefruits which can cause extensive
property damage.
Tornadoes often form very rapidly from severe thunderstorms. If
you are in a Tornado Watch... and a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is
issued for your area... monitor local conditions closely and be
ready to take quick action to save your life.
Remember that lightning is a thunderstorms most underrated killer.
Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent. This
is the best way to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation.
Automobiles offer good protection from lightning... although moving
indoors is best. Even inside... lighting can kill by coming through
the phone lines... plumbing and electric lines. Therefore do not
use computers... telephones or other hand held appliances during a
storm.
Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio... commercial radio or television
for the latest on this developing severe weather event. Additional
weather information... including related graphics can be found at
weather.Gov/Tulsa.
