Characteristic signs of an approaching thunderstorm...
Characteristic signs of an approaching thunderstorm:
- rapid and vigorous development of powerful, dark cumulonimbus clouds in the afternoon, resembling mountain ranges with anvil-shaped tops;
- sharp drop in atmospheric pressure and air temperature;
- oppressive stuffiness, stillness;
- calm in nature, a haze appearing in the sky;
- good and clear audibility of distant sounds;
- approaching peals of thunder;
- bright flashes of lightning.
RULES OF CONDUCT
To reduce the probability of lightning strike, a person's body should have as few contacts with the ground as possible. The safest posture is considered to be as follows: squat down, place your feet together, lower your head and chest onto your knees and forearms, and hug your knees with your hands. You can sit or stand on insulating material: a log, a board, a stone, a tent, a sleeping bag, a rope, a backpack.
During a thunderstorm, do not position yourself near reinforced concrete structures, by a body of water, or near a tall object without a lightning rod.
Do not touch the surface of rocks, tree trunks, or metal structures with your head, back, or other body parts. In a relatively safe zone, find a dry spot at a distance of 1.5–2 meters from tall objects: trees, rocks, power line poles.
Do not be near switched-on electrical appliances or wiring, or metal objects, do not touch them with your hands, and do not position yourself near lightning protection grounding. Avoid the area where lightning has struck, or wait a few minutes for the electricity to dissipate.
During a thunderstorm, try to keep your clothes and body dry. Immediately call emergency services by dialling "101" in case of a fire caused by a lightning strike. Provide assistance to victims.