National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Thunderstorms from the Plains into the Central Appalachians; Heavy Rain in the Central Gulf Coast; Heat Across Portions of the East

Widespread showers and thunderstorms are likely from from northeast New Mexico/Southeast Colorado, eastward into the Central Plains through the Central Appalachians. Slow moving low to bring heavy rainfall to the Central Gulf Coast into the weekend. Dangerous heat is expected from the Lower Mississippi Valley, Tennessee Valley, Ohio Valley into the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Read More >

...Safety Rules for Severe Thunderstorms--For Media to Broadcast...

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued by the National Weather Service in Louisville, Kentucky.  The following damaging, high wind safety tips are being provided in hope that the broadcast media will broadcast frequently these messages while the watch affects their area.

These thunderstorms are expected to produce widespread wind damage that likely will down trees and power lines, resulting in power outages and transportation disruptions.  In addition, these winds may damage buildings and vehicles.

If you are in the path or near these storms, take immediate action to protect life and property.  Follow these safety rules:

1.)  Take shelter in your home, away from windows.  Abandon mobile homes.  Go to a substantial structure or place of safety.

2.)  Before the storm, bring in unsecured objects from patios and balconies and secure outdoor objects such as lawn furniture or garbage cans that could blow away and cause damage or injury.

3.)  If you are driving, slow down and keep both hands on the wheel or get on the shoulder of the road and stop.  Stay away from treeos or other tall objects that could fall on your care.  Watch for flying debris such as tree limbs or street signs.  Keep a safe distance between vehicles and from cars in adjacent lanes as strong winds could push you car outside its lane of travel.  High-profile vehicles, such as trucks, vans, and sport utility vehicles are more prone to be pushed or flipped by high winds.

4.)  If you observe downed power lines, stay away from them and avois anything that may be touching them, including vehicles or tree branches.  Puddles can conduct electricity.

5.)  If a power line falls on your car, stay inside your vehicle and do not touch any of the metal frame.  Wait until help arrives to exit the car.