An updated report was issued from the National Weather Service on Saturday at 6:09 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 6:45 p.m. for Central Colorado.
Anticipate marble-sized hail (0.5 inches) and wind gusts of up to 50 mph.
“At 6:09 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm 12 miles east of Crestone Peak, or 44 miles southwest of Pueblo, moving southeast at 40 mph,” says the NWS. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”
Locations impacted by the alert include Farisita, La Veta Pass, Crestone Peak, San Isabel, Spring Burn Scar north of Highway 160, Greenhorn Mountain, Gardner, Red Wing, Rye, Rosita, Silver Cliff, Colorado City, Spring Burn Scar south of Highway 160 in Costilla county, Spring Burn Scar south of Highway 160 in Huerfano county and Great Sand Dunes.
The NWS states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.”
The full list of affected locations includes:
• Del Norte Vicinity/Northern San Luis Valley below 8,500 ft
• Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains between 8,500 and 11,000 ft
• Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains above 11,000 ft
• Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains between 7,500 and 11,000 ft
• Wet Mountain Valley below 8,500 ft
• Wet Mountains between 6,300 and 10,000 ft
• Wet Mountains above 10,000 ft
• Pueblo Vicinity/Pueblo County below 6,300 feet
• Walsenburg Vicinity/Upper Huerfano River Basin below 7,500 ft
When lightning looms: Expert safety tips for thunderstorms
Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the NWS. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.
To guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:
Lightning safety plan:
• When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
• Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
• Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.
Indoors safety measures:
• Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
• Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.
Wait for the all-clear:
• After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
• Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.
When indoor shelter isn’t available:
If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
• Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
• Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
• If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
• Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
• Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.
In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.
Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall
When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here’s your guide from the NWS to staying safe during downpours:
Beware of rapid water flow:
During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.
Maintain safe driving distances:
The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.
Slow down and drive with care:
On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.
Visibility matters:
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.
Mind your windshield wipers:
Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.
If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.
Source: The National Weather Service