Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Bucks County

A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly at 4:06 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 7. This warning applies to Hunterdon, Morris, Sussex, Warren, Bucks, Lehigh, Monroe and Northampton counties. Meteorologists warn of winds as strong as 60 mph. Use caution, officials

What is the story about?

A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly at 4:06 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 7. This warning applies to Hunterdon, Morris, Sussex, Warren, Bucks, Lehigh, Monroe and Northampton 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. In addition to damaging winds, frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with these storms. Move indoors immediately. Remember, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning."

Bucks County weather radar

What are NWS meteorologists saying?

At 4:06 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: Hunterdon County in northwestern New Jersey, Western Morris County in northern New Jersey, Sussex County in northwestern New Jersey, Warren County in northwestern New Jersey, East central Lehigh County in eastern Pennsylvania, Northwestern Bucks County in southeastern Pennsylvania, East central Monroe County in northeastern Pennsylvania, Eastern Northampton County in eastern Pennsylvania, Until 5 p.m. EDT. At 4:06 p.m. EDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from Flatbrookville to near Bangor to Ancient Oaks, moving east at 30 mph.

HAZARD: 60 mph wind gusts.

SOURCE: Radar indicated.

IMPACT: Damage to roofs, siding, trees, and power lines is possible. Locations impacted include: Allentown, Easton, Newton, Bethlehem, Dover, Hopatcong, Forks, Emmaus, Hackettstown, Wilson, Wharton, Washington, Blairstown, Hellertown, Nazareth, Bangor, Mount Arlington, Franklin, Flemington, and High Bridge. This includes the following highways, Northeast Extension between mile markers 51 and 54. Interstate 78 in Pennsylvania between mile markers 56 and 76. Interstate 78 in New Jersey between mile markers 0 and 26. Interstate 80 in New Jersey between mile markers 0 and 35."

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.