Lightning, thunder, high winds, rain and hail can be associated with thunderstorms.
Thunderstorms can potentially cause devastation to structures, and, in extreme cases, injury to people and even death.
Usually, thunderstorms happen during spring and summer,, and predominantly in the afternoons and evenings.
Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) has the following thunderstorm safety tips:
• Thunderstorms are dangerous. If you hear thunder, then you are in danger of lightning. The sound of thunder means go to a safe place immediately.
• The best place to be is inside the car or well-constructed buildings. Windows should be closed.
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• Avoid open shelters in picnic areas.
• Do not shelter under trees. Lightning strikes tall objects.
• Stay out of water, it’s a good conductor of electricity. Swimming pools, lakes and all other open water sources, should be avoided. Stay away from them. No water sports should take place during thunderstorms.
• Do not shower, wash your hands, wash dishes or do the laundry during a thunderstorm.
• Avoid all contact with metal objects.
• Avoid outdoor activities or sports.
• Do not use electronic equipment, such as computers and appliances during a storm.
• Stay away from doorways during a storm.
If someone is struck by lightning, or you find yourself in a life-threatening emergency during a thunderstorm, seek help immediately by calling the numbers below:
• Metro emergency call centre: 011 458 0911.
• Landline toll free number: 10177
• Cellphone toll free number: 112
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Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za, Leigh Hodgson (News Editor) leighh@caxton.co.za or Ashley Kiley (Journalist) ashleyk@caxton.co.za.
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