With severe weather in the forecast, now is the time to prepare for potential thunderstorms, lightning, and hail. These storms can develop quickly, bringing dangerous conditions such as strong winds, heavy rain, power outages, and property damage. Taking precautions before, during, and after the storm can help keep you, your home, and your animals safe. Follow these safety tips to stay prepared and minimize risks.

Before the Storm

Preparation is key to minimizing damage and keeping everyone safe. Monitor weather alerts and have an emergency kit ready, including flashlights, food, water, and a battery-powered weather radio. Secure outdoor furniture and decorations that could be blown around. Trim trees to prevent branches from breaking and damaging your home. Use surge protectors to safeguard electronics from lightning strikes.

During the Storm

Lightning Safety
Lightning is one of the deadliest threats during a thunderstorm. Seek shelter in a sturdy building or a hard-topped vehicle. Stay away from open areas, tall objects, and water. Indoors, avoid using corded electronics, plumbing, or standing near windows.

Hail Safety
Hailstones can range from small pellets to baseball-sized ice chunks that cause serious damage to homes, vehicles, and even animals.

-Stay Indoors: Large hail can break windows and cause injuries. Move away from windows and doors during a hailstorm.
-Protect Your Vehicle: Park in a garage or under a strong shelter. If driving, pull over safely, stay inside, and cover yourself with a blanket or coat to protect against shattered glass.
-Secure Your Home: Close curtains and blinds to prevent broken glass from scattering inside. If your home is prone to hail damage, consider installing impact-resistant roofing and storm shutters.
-Protect Pets and Livestock: Bring pets inside before the storm starts. Provide shelter for larger animals, such as barns or covered enclosures. If no shelter is available, ensure animals have a low-lying area away from trees and fences, which could be hazardous.

After the Storm

Once the storm passes, be cautious when assessing damage. Stay away from downed power lines and check your home and vehicle for damage. If you have animals, check them for injuries and ensure their enclosures are still secure.

-Report Power Outages: Contact Puget Sound Energy (PSE) at pse.com/outage. For more information on power outages, visit our Windstorms and Power Outages page.
-Report Storm Damage: Use the SeeClickFix app or visit newcastlewa.gov/report to report fallen trees or damage to public property.

With severe weather on the way, staying informed and taking action now can make all the difference. Stay alert, take warnings seriously, and be prepared. For more information, visit weather.gov.