Prepared for Severe Thunderstorms
News Release: May 27, 2011
Contact: Janice Osborne, Director-Communications and Marketing
American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley
(610) 865-4400, ext. 262; pager (610) 830-9771


A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for parts of the greater Lehigh Valley and the American Red Cross urges residents to take steps now to stay safer when severe weather threatens.

A severe storm watch means severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. People in a watch area should keep informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Before Lightning Strikes:

  • Keep an eye on the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of light or increasing winds. Listen for the sound of thunder.

  • If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to a safe shelter immediately. The National Weather Service recommends staying inside for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder clap.

  • Prepare for high winds: If you have time, secure lawn furniture, outdoor decorations, trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that can be picked up by wind.

    When Storm Approaches:

  • Find shelter in a building or car. Keep car windows closed and avoid convertibles.

  • Telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Unplug appliances. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. (Leaving electric lights on, however, does not increase the chances of your home being struck by lightening.)

  • Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.

    If Caught Outside:

  • Go to a low-lying, open place away from trees, poles or metal objects. Make sure the place you pick is not flooding.

  • If you are in the woods, take shelter under the shorter trees.

  • If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter immediately. (Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are NOT safe.)

    If Someone Is Struck By Lightning:

  • People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge and can be handled safely.

  • Call for help. Get someone to dial 9-1-1 or your local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) number.

  • Give first aid. If the heart has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR. For more information on severe thunderstorm preparedness, contact the American Red Cross at 610-865-4400 or visit www.redcrosslv.org.

    The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley serves residents of Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties. Last year the Red Cross helped more than 76,500 people through preparedness and training, military personnel support, senior lifesaving programs and services, emergency relief and information and referral. The Red Cross is a charitable organization - not a government agency - and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information about the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley or volunteer opportunities, call (610) 865-4400 or visit www.redcrosslv.org.