As summer approaches, you may be eagerly anticipating spending more time outdoors, enjoying activities such as walking the Riverwalk along the Black Warrior River, fishing in Lake Tuscaloosa or just spending a lazy afternoon listening to Denny Chimes on the Quad. However, it’s important to remember that thunderstorms are common in our area during the summer months, especially from May through July. All thunderstorms contain lightning, which poses significant risks to those caught outside.
Lightning is a powerful natural phenomenon that can cause severe injuries or even fatalities. Each year, lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times, resulting in approximately 20 deaths and hundreds of injuries. To stay safe during frequent summer thunderstorms, it’s crucial to follow some essential lightning safety tips.
Plan Ahead: Before heading outdoors, use the UA Safety app to check the weather forecast. If thunderstorms are predicted, consider rescheduling your activities or ensure you have access to a safe shelter.
Seek Shelter: If you hear thunder, then you are close enough to a storm to be struck by lightning. Remember, when thunder roars go indoors. Seek shelter in a substantial building or a hard-topped vehicle. Avoid open fields, hilltops and tall isolated trees, as these are more likely to attract lightning.
Avoid Water and Metal: Stay away from bodies of water, such as lakes or swimming pools, and metal objects, such as fences and poles, which can conduct electricity. If you are swimming or boating, get to land and find shelter as quickly as possible.
Stay Indoors: Once indoors, avoid using electrical appliances, as lightning can travel through electrical systems. Stay away from windows and doors, and avoid contact with plumbing.
Wait It Out: Most summertime thunderstorms don’t last long. Remain inside for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from the center of a storm, even if it appears to be clearing up
Watch the video below for more lightning safety tips.
Safety Reminder: UA Alert System Test
Weather permitting, the University will test its emergency notification systems, including UA Alerts, the public address system and digital signage Wednesday, May 7, at 11:55 a.m.