The National Weather Service has issued a SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH for Montgomery County until 4PM. Severe Thunderstorms are possible this afternoon and evening. At 9:40 am, dopplar radar indicated a cluster of severe thunderstorms over Baltimore County and additional storms forming West of Montgomery County. These storm are expected to move East and become more widespread.
The primary threat with these storms include extremely heavy rain, large hail, lightning, and isolated tornadoes.
Those with outdoor plans should monitor the skies and be prepared for threatening weather. If you are outdoors and storm approaches, seek safe shelter indoors.
A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH means conditions are favorable for severe storms in and close to the watch area. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce tornadoes with little or no advanced warning. Residents should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
In the event of a Severe Thunderstorm Warning
Go to a safe place, such as a building or car.
If no structure is available, find an open space and squat low to the ground as quickly as possible.
Avoid tall structures such as towers, tall trees, telephone lines or power lines.
Stay away from natural lightning rods made of metal such as golf clubs, fishing rods, bicycles or metal fences.
Stay away from bodies of water and flood-prone areas.
Avoid bathtubs, water faucets and sinks because metal pipes can transmit electricity.
Turn on a battery-operated radio or television.
Don't use a cell phone or landline phone.
Don’t use a computer, if possible.