Strong Thunderstorms to Hit Clearfield, Cambria Counties Until 1 A.M. Wednesday

The National Weather Service issued an alert at 12:26 a.m. Wednesday for Clearfield and Cambria counties. It warned of strong thunderstorms and gusts up to 50 mph through about 1:30 a.m.

Lightning risks and precautions

Lightning is a frequent hazard, especially during summer months. The National Weather Service says lightning causes roughly 20 deaths per year in the U.S.

Plan before you go outdoors

• Have a clear shelter plan before leaving home.
• Watch the sky and listen for thunder.
• If thunder is heard, seek indoor shelter immediately.

Safe actions if you are indoors

• Avoid corded phones and plugged-in electronics.
• Stay away from plumbing fixtures, windows, and doors.
• Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before going outside.

If no indoor shelter is available

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, and ridge crests.
• Do not shelter under tall isolated trees or other lone objects.
• In woods, stay near shorter groups of trees, not isolated tall trees.
• Spread out if you are in a group to reduce transfer risk.
• Camping in open areas is discouraged; valleys and ravines are safer.
• Remember a tent does not protect against lightning.
• Keep away from water, wet items, and metal objects.

Driving and flood dangers in heavy rain

Heavy rain increases the risk of flooding and dangerous driving conditions. Motorists should adjust speed and distance accordingly.

• Avoid parking or walking near culverts and drainage ditches.
• Use the two-second rule for following distance, and add two seconds in heavy rain.
• Slow down; do not brake suddenly to avoid skidding.
• Prefer middle lanes when possible, as water pools in outside lanes.
• Turn on headlights to improve visibility.
• Beware that the first 30 minutes of rain can make roads especially slick.
• Keep extra distance from large trucks to reduce spray and blind spots.
• If visibility becomes unsafe, pull off the road well beyond guardrails if possible.
• Use emergency flashers and keep headlights on when stopped.

Filmogaz.com compiled these safety tips from the National Weather Service. Residents in Clearfield and Cambria should monitor local updates and follow official guidance.