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Severe storm

A thunderstorm is an atmospheric disturbance manifested by lightning and thunder. It can be accompanied by torrential rain, hail or violent winds.

Associated with the page Types of emergency situations

A severe thunderstorm can cause flooding, fire, power failure and electrocution, as well as extensive damage.

Take cover as soon as thunder rumbles

Taking cover as soon as thunder rumbles is the safest thing to do.

To find out how close you are to the storm, count the number of seconds between a flash of lightning and a thunderclap. One second is equivalent to a distance of around 300 meters. For example, if lightning and thunder are separated by 5 seconds, the thunderstorm is about 1,500 m (1.5 km) from your location. If the storm is less than 10 km away, you should take shelter.

Follow safety rules

Follow safety rules wherever you are. In the event of a severe thunderstorm, follow the instructions issued by the authorities.

Inside a building

  • Unplug electrical appliances;
  • Close doors and windows tightly;
  • Take refuge in a room in the center of the building, as lightning can pass through exterior walls, windows and doors;
  • Keep away from pipes and electrically conductive objects such as stoves and showers;
  • Do not use the TV or computer;
  • Preferably use battery-powered devices;
  • Use a cordless phone or cell phone if you have one; otherwise, use your landline only in an emergency; and
  • Wait for calm to return before going outside.

On board a vehicle

A car with a hard top (not a convertible) can act as a shelter and protect you from lightning. It’s best not to drive during thunderstorms, and to stay away from power lines. If a power line falls on your vehicle, stay inside and wait for help.

Outdoors

If you are outside during a thunderstorm, the following tips will help you reduce the risk of lightning strikes:

  • Take refuge in the lowest place you can find, such as a ditch;
  • Crouch down;
  • Rest your head on your knees and cover it with your arms;
  • If possible, place an insulating material, such as a plastic bag, between you and the ground; and
  • Be prepared to move in the event of flash flooding.
  • Keep away from the following:
  • trees;
  • telephone poles;
  • electrical wires;
  • Electrically conductive objects, such as motorcycles, lawnmowers, golf clubs, umbrellas…;
  • water; and
  • hills or any high ground in an open area.

If you’re in the middle of a forest, seek shelter under a dense canopy of small trees or shrubs. If you are in a boat, return to shore immediately.

Source and reference for more information: Urgence Québec – Severe thunderstorms

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