Residents in Geneva and Houston counties were alerted to the threat of strong thunderstorms with wind gusts of up to 40 mph by the National Weather Service early on Saturday morning. The storms, moving southeast at 10 mph, were expected to impact several locations including Cottonwood, Dothan, and Hartford. The weather service warned of potential tree damage, localized flooding, and cloud-to-ground lightning strikes accompanying the storm.
To mitigate the risks associated with lightning during thunderstorms, experts recommend creating a lightning safety plan, seeking shelter indoors, and refraining from using electrical devices or plumbing fixtures. If caught outdoors during a storm, it is advised to avoid open fields, tall trees, and water bodies to reduce the risk of being struck by lightning.
Additionally, when driving in heavy rain, safety tips include maintaining safe driving distances, slowing down, choosing the middle lanes, ensuring visibility with headlights, watching out for slippery roads, and being cautious around large vehicles. It is also recommended to pull over and wait for heavy rain to ease up if visibility becomes severely limited.
Advance Local Weather Alerts, provided by United Robots, offers real-time weather updates using machine learning technology to help residents stay informed and prepared for changing weather conditions. By following these safety guidelines and staying informed, individuals can prioritize their safety and reduce risks associated with severe weather.
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