ATLANTA — When compared with hurricanes and winter storms, thunderstorms affect relatively small areas. But despite their small size, all thunderstorms are dangerous because they can produce strong winds, lightning, tornadoes, hail and flash flooding. Typically, thunderstorms are about 15 miles in diameter and last an average of 30 minutes.

Straight line winds can reach speeds excess of 100 mph and produce damage similar to a tornado. These winds occur, on average, 19 days per year in Georgia. These events have occurred in every month of the year, but are most common in the spring and summer months, peaking in July.

Here is some information to help you recognize severe weather, develop a plan, and be ready to act when threatening weather approaches.

To prepare for a thunderstorm
Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.

Remember the 30/30 lightning safety rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.

If a thunderstorm is likely in your area
Postpone outdoor activities.

Get inside a home, building or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.

Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide no protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.

Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.

Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
Avoid showering or bathing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.

Use a corded telephone only for emergencies. Cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use.

Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.

Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.

Avoid the following

Natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.

Hilltops, open fields, the beach, or a boat on the water.

Isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.

Anything metal-tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.