On Tuesday, the National Weather Service issued an updated severe thunderstorm warning for Klamath County, effective until 6:15 p.m. Wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph and nickel-sized hail (0.88 inches) are expected. The severe thunderstorm was tracked near Sprague River, approximately 20 miles northeast of Klamath Falls, moving north at 25 mph, prompting concerns about potential damage to homes, roofs, and trees.
Residents are advised to take precautions for safety. The weather service recommends moving to an interior room on the lowest level of your home when severe weather approaches. It’s crucial to remain indoors and to avoid using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, as these can pose risks during lightning events.
Given that lightning strikes the United States around 25 million times a year, with about 20 fatalities annually, it is essential to have a lightning safety plan when outdoors. People should be vigilant, listening for thunder and observing the sky for ominous signs, seeking safe shelter indoors when severe storms loom.
If individuals find themselves outside without access to shelter during a thunderstorm, they should avoid high ground and isolated trees, stay away from water and metal objects, and spread out if in a group to minimize the risk of lightning injury.
In addition to severe thunderstorms, the risks arise during heavy rain conditions, which can lead to flooding and hazardous driving. Safety tips for navigating these conditions include maintaining safe distances while driving, reducing speed, and being cautious about traffic visibility during rain. It’s particularly important to remain vigilant in the initial moments of rainfall, as roads can become slick due to a mix of oil and water.
By staying informed about weather conditions and following safety guidelines, residents can mitigate risks associated with severe storms and heavy rainfall, ensuring their well-being during adverse weather.