Snellville, Gwinnett Under Severe Storm Watch

The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm watch to remain in effect until 9 p.m. this evening for several counties including Gwinnett. A Watch means conditions are conducive to the development of severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.

Should a severe thunderstorm warning be issued, it would mean a severe thunderstorm has actually been observed by spotters or indicted on radar and is occurring or imminent in the warning area. 

Should a warning be issued, weather.com offers the following tips.

If you are at home:

• Follow weather reports. Make sure a battery-powered radio is nearby.
• Do not turn on the television. Listen to The Weather Channel Radio Network for the most current information.
• Lightning can cause power surges. Unplug all appliances before the storm hits.
• Avoid using the phone. Telephone lines can conduct electricity.
• Metal pipes also conduct electricity. Stay away from faucets, sinks, and bathtubs.
• Close the blinds and shades of your window, then keep away from them.
• Keep pets on a leash or in a carrier.

There are times when storms come up suddenly. 
If you are away from home, protect yourself and your family by taking cover in the best shelter you can find.

If you are away from home:

• If you are in or near the water, go to land immediately and find shelter.
• If choosing between a building or a car, choose the building.
• If choosing between a hard-top and a convertible, choose the hard-top.
• If you're in a car, keep the windows closed.
• If there is no shelter, find a low-lying, open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles, or metal objects that can conduct electricity. Make sure it is not likely to flood.
• Assume a tucked position: Squat low to the ground. Place your hands on your knees with your head tucked between them. Try to touch as little of your body to the ground as possible.
• Do not lie flat on the ground, as your fully-extended body will provide a larger surface to conduct electricity. Stay in a tuck position well after the storm passes.
• Watch for local flooding you may have to move if water begins to accumulate.
• If you feel your hair stand on end in a storm, drop into the tuck position immediately. This sensation means electric charges are already rushing up your body from the ground toward an electrically charged cloud. Minimize your contact with the ground to minimize your injury..