Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Severe thunderstorms are possible in and close to the watch area.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: A severe thunderstorm has been spotted and is going to move through your country soon.

If you are outdoors:

• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.
• Move to a sturdy building or car. DO NOT take shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees, near fences, poles or in convertible automobiles. Make sure the place you pick is not subject to flooding.
• If you are in the woods, take shelter under the shorter trees.
• If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stand on end, squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Make yourself the smallest target possible; minimize your contact with the ground. If lightning occurs and sturdy shelter is not available, get inside a hard top automobile and keep the windows up.
• Get out of boats and away from the water.
• Stay away from telephone lines and metal pipes, which can conduct electricity.
  

• DO NOT take a bath or shower.
• Turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressors.
• Unplug appliances not necessary for obtaining weather information. Use the telephone only for emergencies.
  

For more information contact Mike Raffe at 273-1900 ext.11 or
e-mail mraffe@tompkins-redcross.org
American Red Cross of Tompkins County
201 West Clinton Street Ithaca, NY 14850
(607) 273-1900