With three-fourths of Colorado being above sea level, the orientation of the mountain peaks and valleys creates a constantly changing air flow through the region resulting in sporadic and unexpected weather events. This is why we encourage you to follow the National Weather Service on social media (Twitter: @NWSBoulder) and Facebook (facebook.com/NWSBoulder) for the latest watches, warnings, and advisories. Additionally, download local media apps on your smartphone or android device so you’re able to get emergent push-alerts about incoming weather.
During storms, the best and safest option is staying indoors or in your vehicle, and position yourself at the innermost part of the vehicle or home to prevent injuries.
- Stay indoors. Do not try to leave your secure location until the storm has passed.
- Pay attention to weather alerts and warnings.
- Avoid using electronic devices connected to an electrical outlet.
- Avoid running water.
- If you’re driving, turn around, don’t drown! Do not try to drive through flooded roadways. Just one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
If you’re caught outdoors in severe weather including lightning, hail, or flooding, below are some safety tips:
- Find shelter immediately. If you cannot go indoors, run into parking garages, public vehicles, or vehicles. If you can’t find shelter to protect your entire body, protect your head.
- If you cannot seek shelter, use your jacket, bags, and other items to provide some protection to your head.
- Stay out of culverts and lowland areas that might suddenly fill with water.
- Trees are a last resort. Severe storms can result in lose branches falling, which could caused injury. Trees also attract lightning. Avoid using trees for shelter, if at all possible.
- Stay away from light poles, fences, clotheslines, and upward-standing metal objects as they can attract lightning.
- Do not walk through flooded walkway areas. It will be difficult to ground yourself, preventing you to be swept up in the flooded waters.
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