Thunderstorm & Lightning Preparedness

In Southern Georgia, thunderstorms are frequent and can escalate rapidly. What may seem like a typical afternoon storm can bring deadly lightning, damaging wind, torrential rain, and power outages in minutes. Familiarity with these storms shouldn't breed complacency. Recognizing risks, understanding alerts, and preparing ahead—before the weather turns—are your best defenses.

Know the Risk & Alerts (Watch vs. Warning)

Understand local thunderstorm risk year-round
- In Georgia, strong storms can occur at any time of day or season—not just summer or afternoon thunderstorms.
- Listen for “When thunder roars, go indoors”—as soon as you hear thunder, you're close enough to be struck.

Stay alert for watches and warnings
- Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Conditions may produce severe weather. Be ready to seek shelter.
- Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Dangerous storm activity is occurring or imminent—move indoors immediately.

Reinforce Your Home & Electronics

Reduce physical damage from wind and hail
- Trim or remove dead/rotten branches that could fall during storms.:
- Secure outdoor items—umbrella stands, lawn furniture, grills—to prevent them from becoming hazards.

Protect electronics from surges
- Install quality surge protectors or a whole-home system. Lightning can induce damaging electrical surges.
- Unplug electronics before a storm if practical and safe to do so.

Plan & Shelter Supplies

Designate a safe shelter location
- Choose an interior, windowless space away from plumbing, wiring, and doors—like a hallway or bathroom.
- Ensure pets have safe, weather-resistant shelter or remain with you indoors.

Keep a storm safety kit ready
- Include flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, a NOAA Weather Radio, first aid kit, and essential medications.
- Have a tool for electricity shutdown and a whistle to signal for help if needed.

Indoor Safety During a Storm

At School, Work & Outdoor Activities

Know shelter plans at school or work
- Understand where to go—interior rooms, lowest level or designated shelters—and who communicates warnings and drills.

Avoid being caught outside
- If caught outdoors and no shelter is available, avoid open areas and tall objects. Even then, no outdoor spot is truly safe.
- Use the Flash-to-Boom method: if you hear thunder within 30 seconds of lightning, you are within five miles of danger and should go inside immediately.