The National Weather Service along with Nebraska Emergency Management and the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Division declared this week severe weather awareness week.
Meteorologists at KMTV are working to make sure you know about the severe weather that could be coming your way this season in an effort to keep you prepared and safe.
Thursday's topic is lightning. Lightning is present in every thunderstorm and can be very dangerous. Here are some great tips and information courtesy of the National Weather Service...
Lightning
When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!
For anyone outside, whether you're involved in sports or some other activity, keep an eye on the sky. If you hear thunder, you're already in danger and should head inside a substantial building or hardtopped vehicle immediately. Don’t wait for rain.
Outdoor activities (fishing, boating, golf, soccer, walking, running, yardwork) contributes to dozens of lightning deaths in the United States. Officials in charge of organized sports should have a lightning safety plan, and those involved in the sport (and their parents) should understand the plan and know what to do.
The plan should identify:
-How long it will take to get everyone to safety
-Where the participants and spectators should take shelter
-When officials should stop and resume the event
-Who is responsible for making weatherrelated safety decisions
-Who is responsible for monitoring conditions and notifying officials of weatherrelated threats.
Whether you're out for a run, watching your child's game, or attending a major sports event, remember that there's no safe place outside in a thunderstorm. When thunder roars, go indoors!
For more information go to: Lightning Safety
