Tornadoes and Hurricanes do incredible damage and usually get a lot of attention in the mainstream media. But despite their dramatic appearance, they are not the most lethal weapons in Mother Nature's arsenal. This article will identify the most potent weather killers and what you can do to survive them.
#1 Extreme Cold
It's not dramatic and very easy to predict. Nonetheless Extreme Cold weather tops our list, killing 680 annually -- more deaths than all other extreme weather combined. Don't be caught unprepared. Blizzard and Winter Storm Warnings are often issued 24 hours in advance. Pay attention to the local weather forecast or NOAA Weather Radio channels. Have extra blankets and winter gear in your vehicle during winter months.
#2 Extreme Heat
On the other end of the spectrum, but just as deadly is Extreme Heat. Heat-stroke, heat-exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses account for over 350 deaths annually. Like Extreme Cold, Extreme Heat can also be easily avoided with some common sense. Monitor infants and elderly closely during extreme heat. They are especially at risk. If you must be outside, drink lots of water (16-32oz per hour) and avoid unnecessary physical exertion during peak hours (noon-5PM).
#3 Flooding
Slow-rising currents of water may not look threatening, but looks can be deceiving. Flood waters kill 100 people every year in the U.S. A primary reason why people die in flood waters is because they are swept away and drowned attempting to drive through flood currents. Never attempt to cross flowing water more than 6 inches deep. If the depth is unknown, avoid it altogether. In an evacuation situation, seek high ground roads (use your topographic maps) or Interstates which are usually built several feet above ground.
#4 Lightning
Known as the "underrated killer", Lightning ranks #4 on our list with 60-90 deaths and 500 injuries each year - more than Tornadoes and Hurricanes combined. There is a lot of confusion regarding when and where lightning can strike. The critical rule is this: if thunder can be heard, you are at risk of being struck. The majority of lightning fatalities occur when people resume outdoor activities too soon after a storm has passed. Their flawed reasoning is, "it stopped raining, we can go back outside now". Consider that lightning can strike ten miles from the base of a thunderstorm. To avoid tragedy, you should wait at least 30 minutes after a storm has passed before going back outside.
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