JUNE: Lightning & Thunderstorm Safety

While you are enjoying your time outdoors this summer, be alert for signs of severe weather. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Winds can uproot and topple trees. Before you head out, check the forecast and pack appropriate gear. #KnowBeforeYouGo

Take Action

• When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors 
  • www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/lightningsafety/index.html
  • www.nps.gov/articles/lightning-safety.html
• If you can’t get indoors, know your recommended protective actions.

Tip

If a thunderstorm is approaching and you cannot get indoors or inside a hard-top vehicle, stay away from tall trees and do not stand near tree roots. If you are on a ridge, get down if possible. Crouch down on the balls of your feet and cover your ears with your hands.

Learn More

• www.weather.gov/safety/lightning (NWS lightning safety tips)
• www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMOFxrAWquk (Lightning safety tips video) 
• www.weather.gov/media/owlie/OSHA_FS-3863_Lightning_Safety_05-2016.pdf (Lightning safety when working outdoors)

Community Safety and Awareness Days/Weeks/Months

• June is National Rivers Month [www.americanrivers.org/life-needs-rivers/]
• June 4, 2022: National Trails Day [https://americanhiking.org/national-trails-day/]
• June 5, 2022: World Environment Day [www.un.org/en/observances/environment-day]
• June 19 – 25, 2022: National Lightning Safety Awareness Week [www.weather.gov/gld/LightningSafetyAwarenessWeek]
• June 28, 2022: National Insurance Awareness Day [www.apci.org/media/news-releases/release/67398/]