Storms – strong wind, thunder, and precipitation
Always take storm warnings seriously and follow the given instructions.
What to do before a storm?
- Collect loose items from outside that could be blown away (for example, garden chairs, flower pots).
- Close windows and doors.
- Park your car in a garage, if possible; if not, place it in an open area away from trees. If hail is expected, cover your car with protective blankets, if possible.
- Prepare for power outages. Fully charge mobile phones and power banks.
- Stock drinking water, food, medicines, and vehicle fuel.
- Keep a torch, battery-powered radio, and spare batteries ready.
- Consider the safety of pets!
- If you live in a flood-prone area, monitor the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.
- In case of thunder, unplug household appliances.
- Explain to young children that the danger is not the rumbling sound but the lightning itself.
What to do during a storm?
- Stay indoors and close doors and windows. When leaving the building, use doors that are sheltered from the wind.
- Avoid driving during heavy rain, blizzards or hail. If travel is necessary, drive slowly and carefully, and monitor weather conditions. If visibility is poor, stop in a safe location, turn on hazard lights, and wait for the storm to pass. Ensure you have sufficient fuel for unexpected delays and take a mobile phone with you.
- Keep away from fallen power lines and report them to Elektrilevi at 1343.
- Seek shelter during hail.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid loose items or trees that could break.
- Stay away from water bodies and isolated trees, as they can be hazardous during lightning strikes. If you are in water or on a water body during a thunderstorm, move to the shore, since water is a good conductor and attracts lightning. Avoid driving a vehicle during a storm. Indoors, keep away from windows and electrical outlets.
- Do not use a landline telephone during a thunderstorm, as this can cause electric or acoustic shock.
- Do not light fires under stoves or ovens during a thunderstorm, as smoke is a good conductor and may attract lightning.
- Be aware that wind has a cooling effect, which increases sharply as wind speed rises. In winter, this can make outdoor temperatures feel significantly colder than indicated on a thermometer.
- Wait to carry out any repairs until the storm has subsided.
- If you need urgent help, call 112.
