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Update: Damaging winds expected with thunderstorms in Santa Clara and San Benito counties Wednesday

Santa Clara and San Benito counties are included in an updated severe thunderstorm warning issued by the National Weather Service on Wednesday at 2:59 p.m. The warning is in effect until 3:30 p.m.

Residents should prepare for wind gusts of up to 60 mph.

“At 2:59 p.m., a severe thunderstorm was located 5 miles east of Gilroy, moving southeast at 15 mph,” states the NWS San Francisco CA. “Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”

The warning is for Gilroy and Hollister.

According to the NWS, “Storms will be capable of producing large quantities of accumulating hail. This may result in slick and hazardous driving conditions. Slow down and use caution if driving. Tornadoes can develop quickly from severe thunderstorms. Seek shelter immediately in an interior room on the lowest floor of a well-built structure. Report severe weather to your nearest law enforcement agency or the National Weather Service office in San Francisco CA.”

Emergency alerts in the San Francisco Bay Area

All enabled mobile phones in the area will receive emergency alerts for “considerable or catastrophic” hazards. To monitor other local risk, residents are advised to sign up for county alert systems and to monitor agencies’ social media. Follow these instructions to enable your phone to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs). To receive local alerts in the Bay Area, visit each county’s website:

Santa Clara County

San Mateo County

Alameda County

Contra Costa County

Solano County

Napa County

Sonoma County

San Francisco County

Marin County

Preparing for approaching lightning: Expert safety advice

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the NWS. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, consider the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

Indoors safety measures:

Wait for the all-clear:

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

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

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

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the NWS to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Slow down and stay cautious:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.

Prioritize visibility

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

Watch out for slippery roads:

The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.

When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

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