Fall Severe Weather Preparedness Week - Severe Thunderstorms

According to NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory, there are about 100,000 thunderstorms each year in the United States. About 10 percent of those become severe. 
A severe thunderstorm is a storm capable of producing winds of 58 mph or greater, quarter-size hail, or a tornado. 
Under the right conditions, rainfall from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding. Lightning can spark fires and large hail can damage homes and cars. Strong straight-line winds from thunderstorms can do as much damage as a tornado, creating prolonged power outages, and damaging homes.  
To prepare for severe thunderstorms, you should monitor the weather and review your severe weather plan. If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, take action and seek shelter in an interior room of a sturdy structure away from windows. 
For more severe weather preparedness tips go to MSEMA.org.