Understanding severe storms, safety important during spring, summer months Published April 4, 2007 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- As spring gets into full swing and with summer right around the corner, residents should be aware of severe weather that can occur. As cold and hot air collide, the recipe for severe weather is in place. Hazardous weather can spring up at a moment's notice. to affect outdoor plans and should be taken seriously. "Storm systems can produce weather conditions that can hurt and even kill people." "Thunderstorms do roll through. The land is flat here (Wichita Falls, Texas), though, which means you can see them up to probably 50 miles away," said Tech. Sgt. Jeff Arbogast, a weather forecaster at the 80th Operations Support Squadron at Sheppard AFB. It's not enough to know bad weather is coming. Members and families should be prepared to take shelter when severe thunderstorms with large hail, strong winds and tornadoes move into the region. Knowing what to do can mean the difference between being stuck unprotected and keeping families safe. If a severe storm strikes, the best thing to do is stay inside a sturdy building away from windows, he said. During a tornado, getting underground is the safest place to be. If stuck outside for some reason, a ditch or depression in the ground will provide some protection. Lightning is also another cause for concern for those outside. Stay away from trees and other tall items that could draw lightning strikes. The taller the tree the more likely it will be struck. "All lightning is dangerous. People can never guess how far away it is. Just stay inside until the storm is over," Sergeant Arbogast said. Knowing the weather terms, such as a watch or warning, can be helpful in understanding the current weather situation. A weather watch means that some type of weather might happen. A weather warning means it is currently happening. Knowing the difference between the two is important for safety and outside movement. Sergeant Arbogast said to heed any warning sirens. Stay inside and wait the storm out if these systems alert you to impending weather. Finally, to keep informed of changing weather conditions, Sergeant Arbogast suggests buying a weather radio. "Buy a battery powered one so that if the power goes out, you can still check on the conditions of the storm. It is a good investment during dangerous weather," Sergeant Arbogast said. A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been spotted by law enforcement, emergency or weather personnel. If a tornado warning is sent out, follow these directions: · In homes or small buildings, go to the basement (if available) or to an interior room on the lowest floor, such as a closet or bathroom. Wrap up in overcoats or blankets to provide protection from flying debris. · In schools, hospitals, factories or shopping centers, go to interior rooms and halls on the lowest floor. Stay away from glass enclosed places or areas with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums and warehouses. Crouching down with head covered provides another level of protection. · In high rise buildings, go to interior small rooms or halls. Stay away from exterior walls or glassy areas. · In cars or mobile homes, abandon them immediately. Most deaths occur in cars and mobile homes. If someone is in either of those locations, and will not move, leave them and go to a substantial structure or designated tornado shelter. If no suitable structure is nearby, lie flat in the nearest ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Being cautious during lightning is also key to survival. Follow these tips when lightning is present: · When inside, avoid using the telephone (except for emergencies) or other electrical appliances, and do not take a bath or shower. · If caught outdoors, go to a safe shelter immediately, such as inside a sturdy building. A hard top automobile with the windows up can also offer fair protection. · If people are out boating or swimming, get out of the water immediately and move to a safe shelter away from the water. · For those in wooded areas, seek shelter under a thick growth of relatively small trees. If someone feels their hair standing on end, they should squat with their head between their knees. Do not lie flat. · Avoid isolated trees or other tall objects, bodies of water, sheds, fences, convertible automobiles, tractors and motorcycles. (Some information in this article was collected from the National Weather Service Website.)