Thunderstorms are meteorological events that are characterized by the presence of lightning, thunder, strong winds, heavy rain, and sometimes hail. They happen when warm, moist air rises and cools, causing the water vapor to condense into clouds, and releasing energy that fuels the storm. Thunderstorms can last for a few hours and can cover a large area. It’s important to take thunderstorms very seriously and to find shelter immediately if you hear thunder, as lightning can be deadly.

Here are some things that you shouldn’t do during a thunderstorm:

• Don’t use umbrellas. Umbrellas can act as a lightning rod and conduct electricity.
• Don’t wash your hands or take a shower. Having contact with water increases chances of getting an electric shock.
• Don’t lay down. Laying down gives you more contact with the ground, giving you a higher chance of being struck by lightning.
• Don’t use electronics. Electronics can conduct electricity, so you shouldn’t use them in a thunderstorm.
• Don’t stand under a tree. Trees are usually the tallest objects in an area, (and can conduct electricity) so they have a higher chance of being struck by lightning.

To survive a thunderstorm, it’s very important to take proper precautions and stay informed about the weather. First, avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms and find shelter in a sturdy building or a hard-topped metal car/truck/vehicle. If you are indoors, stay away from windows and metal/electrical equipment and unplug any non-essential appliances. If you are caught outside, don’t seek shelter under a tree as it can conduct lightning. Instead, find a low-lying area and stay away from water, metal objects, power lines, and tall structures. If you feel your hair stand on end or hear crackling sounds, that is a sign that lightning is about to strike, and you should squat down with your hands over your ears to minimize hearing damage.