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Are you prepared for the severe thunderstorms hitting California? As weather patterns continue to change, thunderstorms have become an increasingly common phenomenon in regions like the Central Coast. Recently, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning was issued for parts of the Central Coast, particularly northwestern San Benito County and southeastern Santa Clara County, including areas like Gilroy and Hollister. The warning is a reminder of the potential dangers these storms pose, including high winds, hail, and dangerous driving conditions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that at 2:59 PM PST, meteorologists detected a severe thunderstorm located five miles east of Gilroy, moving southeast at 15 mph. This storm was expected to deliver wind gusts up to 60 mph along with small hail, creating risks for damage to property and trees. Residents in the affected areas have been urged to take precautions, monitor weather updates, and stay indoors during severe conditions.
Moreover, on Wednesday, another alert noted the possibility of pea-sized hail with thunderstorms affecting the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Santa Clara Valley, including San Jose and Gilroy. Trained spotters reported strong thunderstorms, with wind gusts reaching up to 30 mph. This situation poses risks like knocking down tree limbs and causing minor damages to unsecured outdoor objects.
What Should You Do During a Severe Thunderstorm?
When faced with a severe thunderstorm, taking the right precautions can be critical for your safety. Here are some tips to consider:
- Stay Indoors: Avoid the outdoors during a storm. If you are outside, seek shelter immediately.
- Avoid Electrical Apparatus: Once inside, do not touch corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing, or windows and doors. Lightning can cause injuries when touching these items.
- Listen to Weather Updates: Keep an eye on local radio, television, or mobile apps for updates about the storm conditions.
Lightning Safety Tips
With lightning striking the U.S. around 25 million times annually, understanding how to stay safe is essential. Here are key strategies:
- When thunder roars, go indoors. If you hear thunder, it's time to find safe shelter.
- If you're caught outside, avoid open fields and tall trees. Seek lower ground and spread out if you are in a group.
- Refrain from using metal objects or staying near water, as they can conduct electricity.
Driving Safely in Severe Weather
Driving during a severe thunderstorm can be treacherous. Here are some tips for safe driving:
- Use Headlights: Switch on your headlights, even during daylight, to improve visibility to other vehicles.
- Avoid Puddles: Driving through puddles can lead to hydroplaning, where your vehicle loses contact with the road.
- Stay Clear of Flooded Areas: If you come across a flooded road, turn around; flash floods can be extremely dangerous.
Understanding Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle slides over a thin layer of water, losing traction. This usually happens due to:
- Vehicle Speed: Higher speeds can lead to a loss of traction in wet conditions.
- Water Depth: Even a small amount of water can cause hydroplaning.
- Tire Conditions: Ensure tires are well-maintained with adequate tread depth.
If you experience hydroplaning, here’s what to do:
- Ease off the accelerator to reduce speed.
- Turn gently into the skid.
- Wait for the tires to regain the road grip before straightening the wheel.
Conclusion
Severe thunderstorms are a significant weather event that requires our attention and preparation. By understanding the appropriate safety measures and driving tips, you can protect yourself and others during these unpredictable storms. Always stay informed and make responsible choices when battling nature's forces.
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