SW Connecticut News

(Norwalk, Conn.) Today,  July 20, 2022, the City of Norwalk provided safety tips ahead of  expected thunderstorms tomorrow, July 21. Due to the combination of high  temperatures and humidity, the National Weather Service has indicated  that additional storms are possible tomorrow. The conditions of severe  thunderstorms have the potential to cause flash flooding and the downing  of trees and power lines.

There are several steps residents can  take to stay safe before and during a storm. When it comes to strong  wind gusts and fast accumulating rainfall, proper preparation and  knowing what to do in certain situations can save lives and protect  property.

Safety Tips Ahead of Thunderstorms:

• Check the weather forecast before leaving your home for extended periods.
• If a storm is approaching, keep a NOAA Weather Radio or AM/FM radio with you.
• Watch for signs of approaching storms.
• Postpone outdoor activities if storms are imminent.
• Check on neighbors who require special assistance: infants, older individuals, and people from the disability community.

   

Safety Tips During the Thunderstorms:

• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning and should seek safe shelter immediately.
• Seek  shelter via a sturdy building or car. Do not seek shelter in small  sheds, under isolated trees, or in convertible automobiles.
• If lightning occurs and sturdy shelter is unavailable, get inside a hard-top automobile and keep the windows up.
• Get out of boats and away from water.
• Telephone  lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Unplug appliances and  avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Use phones only  in an emergency.
• Get to higher ground if flash flooding or  flooding is possible. DO NOT attempt to drive to safety. Most flash  flooding deaths occur in automobiles.

Safety Tips to Prepare for High Winds

• Secure outdoor items like trash bins and patio furniture that could blow away.
• Take down items like hanging plants that could be blown into windows or patio doors.
• Be sure that propane and other fuel tanks are properly secured.
• Remove any dead or rotting trees and limbs that could fall and cause damage.

For  additional updates, visit the summer safety page on the City’s website  at https://www.norwalkct.org/2068/Summer-Safety or ready.gov

Original source can be foundhere.