Thunderstorms affect relatively small areas when compared to hurricanes and winter storms which sweep large areas. Nearly 1,800 thunderstorms are occurring at any moment around the world. Despite their small size, all thunderstorms are dangerous.
Every thunderstorm produces lightning which kills more people each year than tornados.
Heavy rain from thunderstorms can lead to flash floods - another hazard which often wrecks havoc in inhabitated areas. Strong winds, hail and tornados are also dangers associated with some thunderstorms. Of the estimated 100,000 thunderstorms that occur each year in the U.S., only about 10 percent are classified as severe . Most flash flood deaths occur at night and when people become trapped in automobiles. After the flood, do not use fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters, boil drinking water before using - wells should be pumped out and the water tested for purity before drinking, seek necessary medical care at the nearest hospital, do not visit disaster areas, do not handle live electrical equipment or lines, use flashlights, not lanterns or torches, to examine buildings, and report broken utility lines.