What to do in severe weather situations
GHENT, WV (WVNS) — Severe weather situations can cause a number of issues such as downed power lines, possible tornadoes, flooding, heavy rain, and hydroplaning.
However, what do you do if you are in these types of situations?
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Downed Power Lines
According to the Greenbrier Homeland Security and Emergency Management page, call 911 if you see a downed power line, and always treat a downed power line as if it is live. Do not go near, drive over a downed power line or anything that is in contact with them, or try to move downed power lines, as downed power lines can energize the ground up to 35 feet away.
If your car touches a downed power line or utility pole, make sure other people stay at least 35 feet away and to not get near the line or anything that is in contact with it, and to stay inside the car or stay in place unless you see smoke or fire.
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If you do see smoke or fire from downed power lines, shuffle away from your car without lifting up your feet, jump from the car with booth feet together, and do not touch the car and the ground at the same time.
Shuffling your feet when near a downed power line reduces the risk of electrocution. If a person walks near a downed power line the voltage between their feet will be different due to electricity traveling from areas with higher voltage to areas with lower voltage. Shuffling your feet keeps them in areas of similar voltage, and when shuffling your feet keep them close together.
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Tornadoes
Have plans and supplies in place in case of a tornado. The safest place during a tornado is a basement, but if you do not have access to a basement then find the most interior room without windows such as a bathroom or pantry. Make sure to have an emergency kit and even safety gear ready in your safe place.
Do not take shelter in mobile homes, sheds, or cars as they are not safe during tornadoes. If there are not any buildings around, take shelter in a ditch where you will be a bit below ground and be sure to cover your head with your hands.
Heavy Rain
If you are driving during heavy rain, be sure to slow down, stay a safe distance away from other cars, and turn on your headlights so that other cars can see you and you have time to slow time if necessary. Driving slower also lowers the chance of hydroplaning. Do not slam on brakes when driving in heavy rain, and avoid standing water.
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Flooding
If there is flooding, do not drive or walk through floodwaters, and avoid flooded areas. Know the area and be familiar with where areas of higher ground are located. Ensure you have various ways to get flood warnings such as weather apps and radios. Do not walk in flood waters as it only takes around six inches of water to sweep a person off their feet, and the water can move very quickly.
Stick with 59News and the StormTracker 59 Weather Team for severe weather updates.
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