The National Weather Service issued an urgent update at 1:21 p.m. on Sunday regarding strong thunderstorms expected in Malheur County until 2 p.m. Residents can expect hail the size of pennies and wind gusts reaching 40 mph. According to the service, a thunderstorm was detected near Flat Top Mountain, approximately 17 miles west of Rome, moving eastward at 20 mph. The storm could potentially down tree limbs and displace unsecured objects, with chances of blowing dust and minor outdoor damage.
The affected areas include Burns Junction around 1:30 p.m. and Crooked Creek State Park near 1:50 p.m. Officials urge those outdoors to seek shelter indoors to remain safe.
With thunderstorms, lightning is a significant hazard, striking the U.S. roughly 25 million times annually and claiming around 20 lives each year. Lightning dangers intensify as storms approach, peaking overhead and gradually lessening as they move away.
Safety measures during thunderstorms are crucial:
1. Develop a lightning safety plan when outdoors. If you hear thunder, seek indoor shelter immediately.
2. Once indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing, and steer clear of windows and doors to minimize electrical surge risks.
3. After the last lightning strike or thunder, wait 30 minutes before resuming activities outside. Lightning threats persist even when storms appear to have passed.
4. If no indoor shelter is accessible during a storm, avoid open fields, hilltops, and isolated tall trees. In group settings, spread out to avoid lightning currents transferring between individuals. Refrain from being near water bodies or metal objects, as they conduct electricity well.
In addition to lightning concerns, thunderstorms bring heavy rain, impacting road safety. The weather service advises drivers to take precautions during downpours:
1. Avoid culverts and drainage ditches where fast-moving water can pose a risk.
2. Maintain a safe following distance by extending it to four seconds in wet conditions.
3. Slow down and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding.
4. Use middle lanes to reduce hydroplaning risk and activate headlights for improved visibility.
5. Exercise extra caution in the first half-hour of rain, when roads are most slippery from rain, grime, and oil.
6. Keep a safe distance from large vehicles to avoid reduced visibility from tire spray.
7. If rain severely limits visibility, pull over safely with emergency flashers on until conditions improve.
These guidelines emphasize preparedness and safety during thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, ensuring that individuals can protect themselves and their property from adverse weather conditions.