A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly at 4:53 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16. This warning applies to Berks, Bucks, Lehigh and Montgomery counties.
At 5:07 p.m. EDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Fleetwood, or 9 miles northeast of Reading, moving east at 55 mph.
HAZARD: 70 mph wind gusts.
SOURCE: Radar indicated.
IMPACT: Expect considerable tree damage. Damage is likely to mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings. Locations impacted include: Reading, Emmaus, Quakertown, Kutztown, Fleetwood, Laureldale, East Greenville, Topton, Bally, Bechtelsville, Green Lane, Lyons, Zionsville, Geryville, Ancient Oaks, Gilbertsville, Boyertown, Pennsburg, Macungie, and Coopersburg. This includes Northeast Extension
between mile markers 34 and 54.
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 4:53 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: Northeastern Berks County in eastern Pennsylvania, Northwestern Montgomery County in southeastern Pennsylvania, Southeastern Lehigh County in eastern Pennsylvania, West central Bucks County in southeastern Pennsylvania, Until 5:45 p.m. EDT. At 4:53 p.m. EDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Bernville, or 11 miles northwest of Reading, moving east at 40 mph.
HAZARD: 60 mph wind gusts.
SOURCE: Radar indicated.
IMPACT: Damage to roofs, siding, trees, and power lines is possible. Locations impacted include: Allentown, Reading, Emmaus, Quakertown, Kutztown, Hamburg, Fleetwood, Laureldale, East Greenville, Topton, Leesport, Shoemakersville, Bally, Bechtelsville, Green Lane, Lyons, Zionsville, Ancient Oaks, Fairview Hgts, and Geryville. This includes the following highways, Northeast Extension between mile markers 34 and 54. Interstate 78 in Pennsylvania between mile markers 28 and 30, and between mile markers 61 and 62."
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
