Flood
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keep IDs, medicine, power banks, and cash usable in heavy rain.
View on AmazonWhat is severe storm?
Severe thunderstorms can produce damaging wind, large hail, frequent lightning, tornadoes, and sudden power outages. The hazard is not just the storm cloud; it is broken glass, falling trees, flying debris, flooded roads, and downed power lines after impact.
Shelter choice is the most important first-hour decision. NWS tornado safety guidance favors a small interior room on the lowest available level, away from windows. A basement is ideal when available; otherwise choose an interior bathroom, closet, or hallway.
Lightning risk begins before rain reaches you and can continue after the storm appears to pass. The practical rule is to move indoors when thunder is heard and avoid plumbing, corded electronics, and exposed outdoor areas.
Wind damage is often underestimated. Loose outdoor items become projectiles, garage doors can fail, and windows can break from debris. Preparing before the warning arrives is safer than trying to secure items during the storm.
After the storm, treat the outside environment as unstable. Downed power lines, gas leaks, sharp debris, unstable trees, and flooded roads are common secondary hazards.
First-hour steps
- Move to a low interior room away from windows and exterior doors.
- If a tornado warning is issued, protect your head and neck with a helmet, cushion, or heavy coat.
- Charge devices, turn on emergency alerts, and keep a weather radio nearby.
- Bring loose outdoor objects inside if there is time before wind arrives.
- Keep shoes, gloves, flashlight, first aid, and a whistle in the shelter area.
- Avoid plumbing, corded electronics, and open porches when lightning is nearby.
- After impact, check for gas smell, downed wires, broken glass, and structural damage before moving around.
What NOT to do
Do not stand near windows to watch the storm.
Do not shelter under bridges during tornado warnings.
Do not use corded electronics or plumbing during close lightning.
Do not touch fallen power lines or anything contacting them.
Do not drive around barricades or through storm-flooded roads.
Do not enter damaged buildings until they are checked for structural and gas hazards.
