Survival 360

Disasters and Weather

Thunderstorms

Practical steps for thunderstorms and where to get official guidance.

Reviewed November 14, 2026

What to do

Get inside a substantial building or enclosed hard-topped vehicle when thunder is heard. Check warnings for damaging winds, hail, tornadoes, or flash floods. Postpone activities where you cannot reach shelter quickly.

Before the next alert

Save local emergency management contacts and share your plan with everyone in the household. Check what supplies, accessible transportation, and pet arrangements you would need if you had to leave.

Sources and further reading

Family evacuation checklist