Red Cross Sounds Thunderstorm Warnings

With Chester County and most of the region under a severe thunderstorm watch for Wednesday the American Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania is offering some sound advice about thunder storm safety on its Twitter feed.

Some of it you've been hearing since you were in elementary school: for example, if you are stuck outside, avoid high ground, water, tall trees, and metal objects. Other tips, however, might not occur to everyone.

"Bring items in from outside NOW that could blow away during a storm," the red Cross advises. Waiting until you see the sky darken and hear thunder rumbling can place you at risk for being struck by lightning.

The agency also asks people to evacuate mobile homes that can blow over in high winds and to stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap is heard.

A chance of winds greater than 60 mph and up to two inches of rain were forecast for later Wednesday.