Staying safe during thunderstorms
5 October 2017
Various regions across South-Africa have experienced mild to severe thunderstorms in the past few weeks and this will probably remain the case until the end of summer. serves to proactively inform residents of means and tips for staying safe during this rainy season.
Thunderstorms are storms that are usually accompanied by thunder, lightning, strong winds, hail and rain and normally last for about 30 minutes. However, they may take longer in severe cases.
The build-up of heavy, dark clouds is usually a sign that a storm is about to break out. Early thunderstorm warnings are issued by the South African Weather Service through radio announcements, television, websites and newspapers.
In order to prepare for the rainy seasons, residents are advised to ensure the following:
• Repair any leaking roof.
• Trim back tree branches from your house.
• Check and clean roof gutters.
• Do not dump rubbish in the water drainage system.
• When erecting a house or dwelling, make sure that it is clear of the natural watercourses in the surrounding area.
• Erect a lightning conductor when you live in a thatched building; and keep an emergency number close.
Precautionary measures to be heeded upon receiving warnings:
• Secure all loose objects outside the house or dwelling.
• Cover cars or park them in garages.
• Bring livestock and pets to shelter.
• Disconnect all electrical appliances.
• Leave any swimming pool or other water source immediately.
• Listen to the radio for the latest weather updates and information.
• Have an emergency kit with torches, batteries, candles and matches ready.
• Always remember that if you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance of the storm.
Precautions to be heeded when outside during a storm:
• Go inside a building if you can.
• Do not operate metal machinery or objects such as bicycles and lawnmowers.
• Avoid hilltops and high areas.
• Avoid open spaces such as sport fields.
• Keep away from isolated tall trees.
• Avoid holding an umbrella or fishing rod, as it is dangerous if you are in an open space.
• Do not drive during a severe storm; find a safe place to park that is not close to electrical power lines, trees, streams or rivers.
• Leave any swimming pool or other water source immediately.
• Stay away from metal structures such as fences.
5 October 2017
Various regions across South-Africa have experienced mild to severe thunderstorms in the past few weeks and this will probably remain the case until the end of summer. serves to proactively inform residents of means and tips for staying safe during this rainy season.
Thunderstorms are storms that are usually accompanied by thunder, lightning, strong winds, hail and rain and normally last for about 30 minutes. However, they may take longer in severe cases.
The build-up of heavy, dark clouds is usually a sign that a storm is about to break out. Early thunderstorm warnings are issued by the South African Weather Service through radio announcements, television, websites and newspapers.
In order to prepare for the rainy seasons, residents are advised to ensure the following:
• Repair any leaking roof.
• Trim back tree branches from your house.
• Check and clean roof gutters.
• Do not dump rubbish in the water drainage system.
• When erecting a house or dwelling, make sure that it is clear of the natural watercourses in the surrounding area.
• Erect a lightning conductor when you live in a thatched building; and keep an emergency number close.
Precautionary measures to be heeded upon receiving warnings:
• Secure all loose objects outside the house or dwelling.
• Cover cars or park them in garages.
• Bring livestock and pets to shelter.
• Disconnect all electrical appliances.
• Leave any swimming pool or other water source immediately.
• Listen to the radio for the latest weather updates and information.
• Have an emergency kit with torches, batteries, candles and matches ready.
• Always remember that if you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance of the storm.
Precautions to be heeded when outside during a storm:
• Go inside a building if you can.
• Do not operate metal machinery or objects such as bicycles and lawnmowers.
• Avoid hilltops and high areas.
• Avoid open spaces such as sport fields.
• Keep away from isolated tall trees.
• Avoid holding an umbrella or fishing rod, as it is dangerous if you are in an open space.
• Do not drive during a severe storm; find a safe place to park that is not close to electrical power lines, trees, streams or rivers.
• Leave any swimming pool or other water source immediately.
• Stay away from metal structures such as fences.
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