Before we can get rid of the high heat and humidity, we’re going to have to deal with the potential of severe weather. Here are some tips that will help keep you safe:
Keep an eye on the sky
Being aware of your surroundings is always important. You never know when severe weather could hit. So if the skies are getting dark and winds are picking up, it’s probably best to get to a safe location.
What’s a safe location?
Safe locations are indoors. If you notice high winds, get to a basement or at least put as many walls between you and the outside as possible. Shopping malls are not the greatest place to be as they usually have flat, wide roofs that provide little protection in tornadoes. Basements are perfect, and if you can’t get to a basement, get to a hallway.
Don’t try to out run a storm (or chase it)
Not only can storms move faster than you can, they’re not limited by roads or traffic. Not only that, but some storms can be unpredictable. And don’t try to chase a storm. Do you know what inflow boundaries, convergence or gust fronts are? No? Then leave the chasing to those who do. It’s not worth putting yourself in a potentially dangerous situation. If you’re caught outside and see a tornado approaching, get out of your car and head toward the lowest possible point, like a ditch, and cover your head.
Take warnings and watches seriously
Though you might think that Environment Canada made a mistake when issuing a thunderstorm or tornado warning for your area, they had good reason to issue it. Some storms are very localized, in small areas, but your town or city might be part of Environment Canada’s larger warning area.
Remember that there are more to severe storms than just tornadoes
Tornadoes get all the glamour during severe thunderstorms, but the reality is, in Southern Ontario, we are more likely to be affected by damaging winds like downbursts or straightline winds. These winds can pack a punch just as hard as a tornado and their damage is often mistaken for a tornado damage. Severe storms can also produce floods, hail and severe lightning. That’s why it’s always important to get indoors.
Remember: Always keep an eye on the sky, and stay safe.
A watch is issued when conditions are favourable for severe weather. A warning is when hazardous weather is imminent or occurring.
Want your weather on the go? Download Global News’ Skytracker weather apps for iPhone, iPad and Android.
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