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Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Today's Tips
Lightning
The National Weather Service (NWS) calls lightning “the underrated killer.” Causing an average of 90-100 deaths per year, lightning is more fatal than tornados. North Carolina is ranked fifth in the United States for number of lightning deaths each year. To stay safe from lightning:
- Watch for signs of severe thunderstorms. Lightning commonly occurs with thunderstorms. If you see a thunderstorm approaching, seek shelter immediately.
- If you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance of lightning. Seek shelter immediately!
- Cancel any outdoor activities at the first sign of thunder. Wait 30 minutes from the last lightning strike before resuming outdoor activities.
- If you are caught outside and you feel your hair stand on end, lightning is about to strike. Crouch down on the balls of your feet, put your hands over your ears, and bend your head down. Make yourself as small a target as possible and minimize your contact with the ground. Do not lie flat on the ground.
- If a person has been struck by lightning, seek medical help immediately by calling 911.
Lightning detectors can provide information about detected storm and lightning activity including range, approach, speed, estimated time of arrival, and severity. They also have the potential to signal “all clear” conditions after the lightning threat has passed.
At UNCW, lightning detectors are located in the Natatorium, in the Student Recreation Department, and at EH&S. These lightning detectors enable us to cancel outdoor activities in advance of the arrival of lightning on campus. For more information about lightning and lightning safety, please visit http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/.
Severe Weather Awareness Weak home
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