Damaging winds and thunderstorms to hit Cattaraugus County Friday – 60 mph gusts

The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning at 3:15 p.m. Friday until 4:15 p.m. for Cattaraugus County.

Residents should prepare for winds of up to 60 mph.

“At 3:12 p.m., a line of heavy showers developed in Chautauqua County moving east at 50 mph into Cattaraugus County,” the weather service explains. “Expect damage to roofs, siding and trees.”

Localities affected by the warning include Olean, Salamanca, Allegany State Park, Gowanda, Ashford, Arcade, Allegany, Franklinville, St. Bonaventure and Ashford Hollow. This includes Interstate 86 between exits 15 and 27.

According to the weather service: “For your protection, move to an interior room on the lowest floor of the building.”

Lightning on the Horizon: Expert Thunderstorm Safety Precautions

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, mostly in the summer. It claims the lives of about 20 people a year, according to the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms approach, peaks when the storm is directly overhead, and gradually weakens as it moves away.

To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, keep these recommendations in mind:

Lightning Safety Plan:

• When venturing outside, it’s vital to have a clear plan for finding shelter in the event of lightning.
• Watch for ominous signs in the sky and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is heard, it means lightning is near.
• Immediately seek shelter in a safe place, preferably indoors.

Internal security measures:

• Once you find shelter indoors, refrain from using corded telephones, electrical appliances or plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
• Lightning can follow conductive paths and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.

Wait until everything is clear:

• Wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning or thunder strike before resuming outdoor activities.
• Lightning can strike even after the storm has seemingly passed, so be careful.

When an indoor shelter is not available:

If you find yourself outside during a storm without access to indoor shelter, take these steps to maximize your safety:

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridges, as they put you at greater risk of being struck by lightning.
• Avoid tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay near lower trees.
• If you are in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from being transmitted between people.
• Camping in the open during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If there is no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying area. Note that the tent does not offer any lightning protection.
• Do not approach water surfaces, wet objects or metal objects. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity efficiently and can pose significant hazards.

In short, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related events and prioritize your safety.

Navigating Rainy Roads: Safety Tips for Wet Weather

Heavy rain increases the risk of flooding and treacherous roads. Here’s your guide from the weather service to staying safe during downpours:

Beware of swollen waterways:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as fast-moving water during heavy rain can potentially sweep you away.

Observe safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to keep a safe distance from the car in front of you and give yourself an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Reduce speed and drive carefully:

If it’s raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the gas and let the speed drop gradually. Never apply the brakes suddenly as this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the center lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of aquaplaning, as water tends to collect in the outer lanes.

Prioritize visibility

Improve your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots as rain-stained windows can obscure them.

Beware of slippery roads:

Be especially careful during the first half hour after the rain starts. Dirt and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Do not follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Be careful when you pass them; if you must pass, do so carefully.

Attention to windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can obstruct visibility. If the rain severely restricts your vision, stop and wait for conditions to improve. Seek shelter in rest areas or sheltered areas.

If the shoulder is your only option, retreat as far as possible, preferably behind the end of the railing, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of your position.

By following these safety precautions, you can significantly reduce the risks and ensure your comfort during heavy rain. Stay informed of weather conditions and get advice from local authorities to ensure your journey is safe and sound.