Thunderstorms sound scary, but everything that accompanies thunderstorms can be therapeutic for some people. For example, the wind and the rain can provide peace to people. You can crack open your windows, grab a coffee, sit down, and watch the sky peacefully. However, we know thunderstorms can be dangerous, so is it okay to open your windows during a thunderstorm?
It would be best if you closed your windows during a thunderstorm. This is the wisest thing to do. However, the strength of the thunderstorm and the extent of damage that it can cause also determine such a decision. Keep an eye on weather updates to make an informed decision. There are lighter thunderstorms during which you are free to open your windows.
For more details, please continue reading the article.
To understand the phenomenon of thunderstorms, watch this video: What Causes Thunder and Lightning? ⚡️| Weather Facts | Thunderstorm | Science for Kids | #PantsBear.
Signs Of A Thunderstorm
The life cycle of a thunderstorm can be as quick as 30 minutes, and its beginning might be abrupt and furious. Some thunderstorm warning indicators are evident, like the sun fading as thunderheads approach.
At the same time, you could encounter radio static while having a picnic under a bright blue sky without any other cues. A cumulus cloud that is rising quickly indicates an approaching thunderstorm. It is time to take refuge when the sky is swiftly fading and covered in ominous, turbulent clouds.
Lightning can strike from the highest reaches of the storm’s flattened anvil cloud even when a clear blue sky is overhead. Before the first raindrops fall, lightning can strike during a thunderstorm’s building phase. Winds may suddenly gust or shift.
Damage Caused By Thunderstorms
Due to lightning strikes, high gusts, and flash flooding from rain, thunderstorms can result in damage. Severe thunderstorms have the potential to produce tornadoes, which can wreak havoc on residential and commercial property.
When lights strike a building or home, electricity may flow through the wiring of the structure or home. Any electrical equipment that is plugged into an outlet could suffer catastrophic harm as a result.
Moreover, lightning can start flames, spreading into grass fires and harming a home or other property.
A tornado is one of the most devastating forces that a thunderstorm can produce. When it strikes, the tremendous winds and debris it produces can seriously damage buildings’ structural integrity.
A tornado can make a car, truck, or other large objects airborne if powerful enough. It may bring with it violent downpours of rain. Flash floods can result from this rainfall occurring in a relatively short amount of time.
Thunderstorms can often be accompanied by hailstorms as well. According to NOAA, hail damage can reach $1 billion yearly depending on the hail’s size, wind speed, and the hail’s direction of the hail. A hailstorm can kill even open-range livestock with sufficient strength.
Should I Close My Windows During A Thunderstorm?
Yes, it is advisable to close your windows during a thunderstorm. Keeping your windows open during a thunderstorm is a myth. This will help protect you from flying debris and strong winds. If possible, stay away from windows and doors during a thunderstorm.
Closed windows during a thunderstorm can help to protect yourself and your home from flying debris and water damage. High winds can cause debris to be thrown at your windows, which can cause them to break, and the rain can leak in, causing water damage.
Additionally, lightning can strike nearby and cause an electrical surge that could cause damage to your electronics. The greatest thing you can do in the event of a lightning strike is to keep your body out of the probable line of any nearby lightning strikes, even though there is always a chance that lightning will pass through the closed window.
You might get hurt if a window breaks, but it’s better than becoming a part of a closed circuit between a thundercloud and the ground.
Can I Open My Windows During A Light Thunderstorm?
Thunderstorms come in a variety of intensities. Some extreme thunderstorms cause flying debris, damage to trees and poles, and breakage of items. However, some thunderstorms are milder.
They may be accompanied by winds and tend to strike lightning and cause damage, but they are not as detrimental as the ones mentioned earlier.
In the case of weaker thunderstorms, we advise you to open your windows and take in the weather. It is okay to enjoy, but keep an eye out for weather updates and physical signs of the increasing intensity of the thunderstorm.
How Long Do Thunderstorms Last?
If you are concerned that you may have to stay indoors with your windows closed for a long time, we have some news for you. Luckily, thunderstorms typically last 30 minutes to an hour, although some may linger for several hours.
So bear with it and take the necessary precautions for some time. As you begin to see the signs of a thunderstorm wearing off, you are free to open your windows and continue your life regularly.
Precautions To Take During A Thunderstorm
Thunderstorms can occur anywhere, but they are most common in the spring, summer, and fall, especially in places with high humidity. So, follow the essential precautions and things you must not do for your family’s safety during a thunderstorm as instructed by the authorities.
• Unplug all electrical devices, including televisions, computers, and appliances.
• Only call someone on the phone in an emergency.
• Keep your distance from exterior walls, doors, and windows.
• Steer clear of metallic structures like bleachers, railings, and fences.
• Steer clear of open spaces like parking lots and fields.
• Find shelter in a strong structure.
• Steer clear of lakes, ponds, and other bodies of water.
• Refrain from touching concrete walls or floors.
• Because they can conduct electricity, umbrellas should not be used.
• Keep a safe distance from towers, trees, and other towering structures.
• Avoid using anything with metal components, such as golf clubs or bicycles.
• Driven vehicles should not be operated as lightning could strike them.
Conclusion
Sometimes you may have to sacrifice the urge to romanticize the rain and wind and save your life. Thunderstorms are one such instance. We urge you to stay indoors and follow government guidelines during a severe thunderstorm. It is better to be safe than sorry.