By Staff
The sun may be sunning and the thought of winter coats already forgotten, but spring weather can be a cause of concern.
March 25-31 has been designated as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Michigan by Governor Jennifer Granholm.
Last year there were three lightning fatalities and 10 tornadoes that struck Michigan, which caused no deaths and less than one million damage. The average tornadoes is 16.
Weather watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service need to be taken seriously. Residents should also have a plan in mind in case of tornadoes.
Though it may be impossible to prevent being hit by lightning, definite precautions may be taken.
In 2006 in Michigan lightning killed three, injured eight and caused over $2 million in damages. Severe thunderstorms caused two injuries and about $50 million in damages, with $30 million occurring July 15-18 alone.
This area's first significant severe weather was on March 31 last year, with widespread severe wind and hail.
A cold front moved through the state in the middle of July, with 90 degree temperatures ahead of the cold front, followed by the most severe thunderstorms of the season.
This is also the 10th anniversary of the July 2, 1997 tornado outbreak when 16 tornadoes rolled through lower Michigan.
Most important is that everyone in your household knows where to go and what to do in case of severe weather, no matter whether they are at home, workplace or school.
The recommended plan is as follows: As a thunderstorm approaches and you hear thunder, run to the nearest shelter. You are not safe outside. If a tornado warning is issued for your county or if you feel threatened by the storm, go to the basement and get under something sturdy. If no basement is available, go to an interior part of the building on the lowest level. A good rule of thumb is to put as many walls between you and the tornado as possible.
Listen to NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, or local radio, television and cable stations for the latest weather updates.
The southern part of the state usually experiences more severe weather than northern Michigan.
Whether tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, hail, floods or lightning, proper preparation is the key to saving lives.