Maine’s Thunderstorm Season is Here – Know How to Stay Safe

Thunderstorms can be fun to watch, but it's important to take certain precautions before the fun turns dangerous.

Maine Emergency Management Agency Says Lightning is Powerful and Deadly

Lightning is not something to be taken for granted. A single lightning bolt can carry enough electricity to power a typical household for 9 days, but all that energy is disbursed in a fraction of a second.

READ MORE: Maine Resident Captures Amazing Drone Photos of Storm Clouds

Maine Residents Should Take Safety Precautions During Thunderstorms

The Maine Emergency Management Agency has a few tips for staying safe in a thunderstorm.

When you're outside: 

• Don't risk it; reschedule outdoor activities if thunderstorms are predicted.
• If you hear thunder, move immediately into a substantial building.
• A hard-topped vehicle is also a good shelter, but the rubber tires won't prevent it from being struck by lightning. If it is, the lightning will follow the outer shell to the ground. Roll the windows up and stay fully inside the vehicle.
• Avoid open areas, and stay away from isolated tall objects, such as trees or power poles.

If you're inside during a thunderstorm:

• Don't use any equipment connected to a power cord, like computers or appliances.
• Postpone your shower or any other contact with water or plumbing.
• Don't use landline phones. (FYI: Those are old phones that plug into the wall.)
• Stay away from any doors or windows.
• Avoid lying on concrete floors or leaning against concrete walls.

Mainers Should Evacuate If They Suspect Their Home's Been Hit By Lightning

MEMA advises staying inside for 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder is heard, just to be safe. And if you smell smoke, evacuate the building and call 911.

Remember the Maine Emergency Management Agency's Slogan: 'When thunder roars, go indoors.'