(KNSI) — Severe Weather Awareness Week continues today, focusing on severe thunderstorms.
Several factors classify a storm as severe, but meteorologist Brent Hewett says two particular dangers are in the spotlight today: Lightning and hail.
Hail causes nearly $1 billion in damage every year. Most hail is about pea-sized. Some can reach grapefruit size. Large hailstones fall faster than 100 mph and have been known to kill people.
Lightning kills an average of 43 Americans each year. Hundreds more are severely injured. Nowhere outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area. If thunder is heard, lightning is close enough to strike. Experts sat get inside as soon as possible when thunder is heard and stay inside 30 minutes after the last rumble fades.
Other factors of a storm to classify it as severe include hail over an inch in diameter, winds over 57 miles an hour or a tornado.
A NOAA weather radio can alert you to severe weather for your area, night or day. Learn more here.
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