The week of April 2-6, is Severe Weather Awareness Week for western Montana and north central Idaho. The National Weather Service in Missoula provides this announcement as a public service, to encourage early preparation for the weather effects of spring and summer storms. Severe Weather Awareness Week is the time to plan ahead so you can protect yourself, your family, and your property from weather events we may encounter in the coming months. Spring and summer storms bring the potential for severe and damaging weather, such as lightning, hail, strong winds, flooding, and even tornadoes. Every spring the National Weather Service provides your community with safety tips and information about these severe weather events.
Lightning is a common, yet dangerous product of a thunderstorm.
Lightning can strike at any time and kills more people in Montana during the months of June and July than any other time of the year. If you hear thunder, you should move to an indoor location immediately. Avoid using electrical appliances and only use the telephone in emergencies. If a safe, enclosed shelter is not available and you are caught outside during a lightning storm, get away from water, metal objects and tall trees. Crouch low to the ground.