JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — Heavy winds associated with an incoming storm front yesterday produced hail and did reported damage to some properties. It was a good reminder just how destructive and potentially life-threatening summer thunderstorms can be.
Teton County Emergency Management reminds everyone to be alert for signs of severe weather while enjoying time outdoors this summer. Thunderstorms are most common during the summer months and can produce numerous hazards including large hail, high winds, lightning, and heavy rain.
The Jackson Police Department responded to one scary situation yesterday at 4:25pm. A large tree on Bruun Boulevard was toppled in the windstorm, narrowly missing a motorist. There were no injuries, and only minor property damage, police say. The tree was later removed by Town of Jackson Public Works.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Data, lightning is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities in the United States. Sixty-four percent of lightning fatalities result from outdoor recreation.
A NOAA Weather Radio is a useful tool that will alert you if severe weather is predicted. Know the difference between a National Weather Service Severe Thunderstorm Watch and a Severe Thunderstorm Warning. A watch means be prepared – severe thunderstorms are possible. A warning means take action – severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar and there is imminent danger to life or property.
Prepare your house to withstand the effects of damaging wind and large hail. Keep trees and branches near your house trimmed. If you have time before severe weather hits, secure loose objects and close windows and doors.
If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Know the recommended protective actions:
- Get inside a substantial building as soon as possible. Avoid concrete walls and floors because lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.
- If you cannot get inside a building, get inside a hard-top vehicle with the windows rolled up.
- If you are not near a building or a vehicle: o Stay away from tall trees and do not stand near tree roots.
- If you are on a ridge or peak, get down if possible.
- Immediately get out of and away from ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water.
- Stay away from objects that conduct electricity, like barbed wire fences and power lines.
- Crouch down on the balls of your feet and cover your ears with your hands.
