A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly at 2:57 p.m. on Monday, July 27. This warning applies to Burlington, Camden, Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.
Meteorologists warn of winds as strong as 60 mph.
Use caution, officials warn of hail as large as 0.75 inches.
The NWS warns: "For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building."
Bucks County weather radar
What are NWS meteorologists saying?
At 2:57 p.m., the NWS issued a statement including the following information:
"The National Weather Service in Mount Holly NJ has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for: North central Camden County in southern New Jersey, Northwestern Burlington County in southern New Jersey, East central Montgomery County in southeastern Pennsylvania,
South central Bucks County in southeastern Pennsylvania, Northeastern Philadelphia County in southeastern Pennsylvania, Until 3:45 p.m. EDT. At 2:57 p.m. EDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Riverside, or 8 miles east of Philadelphia, moving southeast at 10 mph.
HAZARD: 60 mph wind gusts.
SOURCE: Radar indicated.
IMPACT: Damage to roofs, siding, trees, and power lines is possible. Locations impacted include: Philadelphia, Cherry Hill, Bensalem, Mount Laurel, Willingboro, Burlington, Bristol, Riverside, Palmyra, Jenkintown, Beverly, Rockledge, Abington, Bryn Athyn, Wissinoming, Ramblewood, Feasterville-Trevose, Barclay-Kingston, Northeast Philadelphia, and Cherry Hill Mall. This includes the following highways, New Jersey Turnpike between exits 4 and 5. Pennsylvania Turnpike between mile markers 348 and 355. Interstate 95 in Pennsylvania between mile markers 26 and 40. Interstate 295 in New Jersey between mile markers 34 and 49."
What is a severe thunderstorm warning?
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued when a storm is occurring or about to occur with winds of 58 mph or higher or hail one inch in diameter or larger, the National Weather Service says. These storms can also bring heavy rain and, in some cases, flooding or flash flooding.
Tips for staying safe during thunderstorms
- Once inside a shelter, stay away from windows and avoid using electrical equipment or plumbing.
- Keep a battery-powered weather radio nearby in case of power loss.
- Secure loose objects outside, as they can become dangerous during high winds.
- Bring pets inside, and if time allows, make sure fences are secure to prevent pets from escaping or running away.
Also, remember lightning can travel several miles from a storm, so hearing thunder means you're within striking distance. The common advice from experts is "When thunder roars, go indoors."
How to stay safe around lightning
If indoors:
- Stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that puts you in direct contact with electricity, according to the NWS.
- Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths, faucets and even toilets, if you can.
- Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
- Do not lie on concrere floors or lay against concrete walls.
If in a vehicle:
- Ensure all windows are fully closed.
- Refrain from touching radios, ignition systems, or any metal parts connected to the vehicle's exterior.
- Stay inside the vehicle until at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.
What to do if a vehicle is struck by lightning
- Stay inside . Your car acts as a Faraday cage, directing the electricity around you and protecting you.
- Keep hands on your lap and away from metal surfaces .
- Do not touch the radio, dashboard, or any electrical components.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before exiting.
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This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor.
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This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Bucks County
