March 2010
Convective Weather Hazards
Prepare in a Year - Activity #3
Additional Preparedness Resources

During March, the days get longer and warmer while the air above remains cool. This combination creates an unstable air mass leading to showers and thunderstorms. The major impacts from such storms can include flooding, flash floods, power outages, and disruptions to transportation. We encourage all Washington residents to recognize and prepare for these hazards.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a severe thunderstorm can produce hail at least three-quarters of an inch and produce winds of 59 mph or greater.

Be ready for this stormy season by preparing your loved ones and preparing your home for disasters.

During a thunderstorm, quickly move indoors to protect yourself from the potential of lightning which is a common and dangerous occurrence during thunderstorms.

Lightning frequently occurs during thunderstorms and can be deadly. According to the National Weather Service, there were thirty-four lightning-related fatalities in the United States in 2009. Twenty-eight fatalities occurred in 2008.

Before a storm occurs, become familiar with the actions you will need to take during a storm. Learn how to reduce your risk if you are outdoors during a storm and teach your loved ones important safety tips when indoors.

During a storm seek safe shelter immediately.

Yes, a tornado can happen here. Washington averages between one and two tornadoes a year. A tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground.

Tornados can occur at any time of the year, but especially in the spring when warmer, moist air near the surface interacts with the cooler air above.

Prepare for a tornado by taking simple steps to prepare your loved ones and prepare your home for disasters. Use a weather radio with an alert feature to get alerts and warnings.

If a tornado approaches seek shelter inside immediately. Move into an interior room or basement until the storm has passed.

Floods, flash floods, and severe winds can occur as a result of the storms that are frequent during this time of the year.

Learn about flood insurance, how to prevent flooding around your home, and how to clean up after a flood at our FloodSafe web page.

Heavy rains from thunderstorms can cause flash floods and damage roadways. Do not drive into a flooded roadway. The depth of the water is easy to misjudge and the road itself may be damaged or destroyed underneath. It only takes about 1 to 2 feet of water to float most vehicles.

During high winds, power lines may get knocked over by falling trees and pose a serious danger. Learn about safety when near downed power lines.