Tips for Extreme Weather like Tornados, Hurricanes, Flooding, Severe Thunderstorms and Lightning

1. Use a rain repellent on your windshield, side windows, and mirrors to clear standing raindrops.
2. Build a car emergency kit. At the very least, have a flashlight, window breaker tool, and seatbelt cutter or Swiss army knife. Have a gallon of water (per person) for each day of the storm. Keep 3 days of non-perishable food available.
3. Keep phone batteries charged.
4. Never try to out-drive a tornado in a vehicle. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift a car or truck and toss it through the air.
5. During tornado conditions, seek shelter in a nearby building immediately if possible.
6. If there is no time to get indoors, or if there is no nearby shelter, lie in a ditch or a low-lying area away from the vehicle. Over passes also can be places of refuge, however, be aware of the potential for flooding.
7. During a Tropical Storm, avoid coastal areas if possible.
8. Be prepared to evacuate when local authorities say it is needed.
9. Know the evacuation routes in your area.
10. Avoid flood-prone areas, especially along creeks and other low-lying areas.
11. Keep an eye on the forecast. Tune in to your local radio or tv station to stay informed of approaching storms. Download local media apps for notifications.
12. If you see a tornado or hear a tornado warning, don’t try to outrun it. View tornado driving safety tips.
13. Turn on your headlights (low beams) and slow down. Many states require the use of headlights during rain.
14. Drive more slowly, allow extra distance for braking.
15. Do not drive unless necessary.
16. Pull safely onto the shoulder of the road away from any trees that could fall on the vehicle.
17. In a heavy rainstorm, stay in the car and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rains subside.
18. An automobile provides better insulation against lightning than being in the open.
19. During a lightning storm, avoid contact with any metal conducting surfaces either inside your car or outside.
20. Avoid flooded roadways.
21. Avoid downed power lines.
22. Check your windshield wipers and tires regularly to insure they are ready for severe weather.
23. Approach intersections with caution
24. Treat traffic lights at intersections as stop signs.
25. Do not use cruise control in wet conditions.
26. Stay calm if you hydroplane. If you feel the car begin to skid, remain calm and steer in the direction where you want the car to go. Don’t slam on the brakes! Don’t make sudden turns or motions, take your foot off the accelerator, and steer straight or slightly in the direction you are heading.  Keep a steady hand on the wheel and steer with small movements to correct your course.
27. TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN – Never drive through water flowing across a road. A small vehicle will float in only 6-12 inches. And roads covered in moving water can collapse from under you.
28. Never drive around barricades. The road has been closed for your safety.
29. Avoid flood-prone areas, especially along creeks and other low-lying areas.
30. Never ever drive through water with a downed electrical line. If you see any utility poles down or other indications that an electrical line may be down, stop immediately and take a different route.