Be wary of severe weather myths in light of recent forecasts

Jun 7, 2023

There are several myths surrounding lightning that contribute to the large amount of injuries and deaths.

One such myth is that if it is not currently raining, that there is no danger; however, lightning has been known to strike 10 miles or more outside of thunderstorms, according to a National Weather Service fact sheet.

A common misconception is that rubber provides protection against the deadly charge, when, in fact, it is not tires, but the metal frame of automobiles that protects against being electrocuted in a vehicle, as long as no one within the vehicle is touching metal.

A concept common to the area that also proves false is the famed "heat lightning." Heat lightning is, in fact, lightning from thunderstorms that is too far away for the thunder to be heard.

Just being indoors does not automatically ensure safety, the National Weather Service also advises avoiding metal window and door frames, as well as corded electrical devices, including charging cell phones, and landlines, as lightning can travel through the wiring. Also avoid showers and baths during thunderstorms, since lightning can travel through metal piping.

Many people believe that the larger the vehicle, the more safe it is to drive through flooded areas. Regardless of the size of the vehicle, it is dangerous to attempt to navigate flood waters, as only two feet of water is enough to float most vehicles, including SUVs and trucks, according to the National Weather Service.

A pervading myth in Pennsylvania is that tornadoes are not possible due to the height of our surrounding mountains. This is not true, as the mountains are simply not tall enough.

If a tornado is approaching, do not waste time opening windows in an attempt to equalize pressure; this is an age-old myth and will have no effect, the National Weather Service states. Another common myth is to seek shelter under an overpass. Repeated events have proven this to be a fatal mistake; the structure of an overpass actually increases the wind speed, acting, in essence, as a wind tunnel, the National Weather Service advises. An additional travel-related myth is that tornadoes and thunderstorms always move from west to east, and while thunderstorms do generally follow that track, however, atmospheric conditions dictate thunderstorm movement, which can be in any direction, a press release said. Tornadoes, on the other hand, have been well known to move erratically, and can change direction and speed with little to no warning at all.

During any severe weather event, preparedness can make the difference between life and death. Because these events often strike quickly, AAA suggests six steps that be taken ahead of time to maximize safety in emergency situations:

• Emergency kits: Create an easy-to-grab emergency kit for evacuations, plus a back-up kit and a car kit. Make sure everyone knows where they’re stored. Replace out-of-date items regularly. Include nonperishable food and water for each family member for three days, a multipurpose tool, flashlight, hand-crank or battery-powered radio, batteries, extra cash, cell phone and charger, first-aid supplies, critical medications and basic personal hygiene products. Keep maps, blankets, shoes, flares and a basic toolkit in the car.

• Family emergency plan: Learn the warning signs of a potential disaster and when to take shelter; identify shelters or safe places and several ways to reach them; and make a communication plan with family members in case you’re separated.

• Pets: Make a pet emergency kit. Put a pet rescue sticker in a front window to alert rescuers that animals may be trapped inside. Make an evacuation plan. Microchip pets in case of separation.

• Insurance: Document possessions at home with a video camera or smartphone. Note the replacement costs for your most valuable items, then talk to your insurance about coverage options.

• Emergency contacts: In case local communications are disrupted, choose a relative or friend in another state to call in case of emergency. Program the contact into your cellphone as ICE (in case of emergency) — rescue workers are trained to look for this.

• First aid: Take CPR and first aid training. If a family member or neighbor is injured during a disaster, this knowledge could save a life.

More summer weather safety tips and tricks can be obtained by visiting www.ace.aaa.com/insurance/disaster-preparedness-center, www.ready.pa.gov, or by searching #SeverePrepPA across all major social media.

For updated information on forecasts, visit https://www.weather.gov/ctp/.

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

Muncy Borough Council approved a contract with Big Rock Paving, Mount Wolf, for paving work this summer during its ...

A lawsuit accusing a roadwork contractor of stealing pension and other benefits from employees is now a class ...