Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued Across Multiple

Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued Across Multiple U.S. Counties: What You Need to Know

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Several parts of the United States, including California and Massachusetts, were under severe thunderstorm warnings this week, as the National Weather Service (NWS) tracked fast-moving storms capable of producing damaging winds, heavy rain, and frequent lightning.

While most warnings have now expired, residents are urged to remain cautious as gusty winds, localized flooding, and lightning hazards may still occur.

🌩️ Thunderstorm Warnings and Areas Affected

✅ Siskiyou County, California

  • Warning Duration: Expired at 6:45 p.m. (July 24)

  • NWS Update: “The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe limits but gusty winds may continue,” said NWS Medford OR.

✅ Lassen & Plumas Counties, California

  • Warning Duration: Expired at 5:00 p.m. (July 24)

  • Conditions: Strong winds and rain observed

  • NWS Reno NV noted, “Storm no longer poses an immediate threat, but conditions remain unsettled.”

✅ Berkshire County, Massachusetts

  • Warning Time: Active between 1:37 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. (July 25)

  • Wind Gusts Forecast: Up to 60 mph

  • NWS Advisory: “Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Seek shelter immediately.”

⚡ How to Stay Safe During a Severe Thunderstorm

🔒 When Indoors

  • Avoid using corded phones and electrical appliances

  • Stay away from windows and doors

  • Do not touch plumbing or water sources

  • Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before heading outside

🏞️ When Outdoors and No Shelter is Available

  • Stay away from open fields and hilltops

  • Avoid tall, isolated trees

  • If you’re in a group, spread out to reduce lightning current transfer

  • Avoid metal objects and water, which are excellent electricity conductors

🚗 Safety Tips for Driving in Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain

🚦 Turn on Headlights

Even during daylight, headlights improve visibility and help other drivers spot you.

🚘 Stick to Middle Lanes

Rainwater collects along the edges of roads, increasing the risk of hydroplaning.

🌊 Avoid Puddles and Flood Zones

Do not drive through standing water. It may hide hazards or sweep vehicles off the road.

🛻 Maintain Distance

Keep a safe distance behind trucks and buses to avoid visibility-reducing water spray.

🛑 Know What Hydroplaning Is

When tires lose contact with the road due to water buildup, vehicles may skid.
To regain control:

  • Ease off the gas

  • Steer into the skid

  • Avoid sudden braking

  • Wait for tires to reconnect with the road

🧠 Quick Reminder: Lightning Safety Facts

  • ⚡ 25 million lightning strikes hit the U.S. yearly

  • 🧍‍♂️ Lightning kills around 20 people annually

  • ⚠️ Lightning strikes can occur even after the storm has passed

📍 Locations Recently Affected

  • Siskiyou County, CA

  • Lassen County, CA

  • Plumas County, CA

  • Berkshire County, MA (Otis, Becket, Sandisfield, Bonny Rigg Corners & others)

📢 Official Advice

“For your protection, move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building,” — National Weather Service

🔍 Related Searches Trending on Google:

  • “Severe thunderstorm warning near me”

  • “What to do during a lightning storm?”

  • “Driving safety tips during rain”

  • “NWS active alerts California/Massachusetts”

  • “Hydroplaning meaning and how to stop it”

🗞️ Stay Weather-Aware

Bookmark your local NWS page or use trusted weather apps to stay informed. Severe weather can escalate quickly — preparedness is key to safety.

For more real-time updates, lightning alerts, and road safety tips, follow us on Google News, or subscribe to our Severe Weather Newsletter.

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