Common Misconceptions About Storms in Dover

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

There are many misconceptions about storms including thunder, lightning, and the flooding that can occur as a result.

There are many misconceptions about storms including thunder, lightning, and the flooding that can occur as a result. Keep reading to learn the truth about some common misconceptions.

1. “Counting the number of seconds between lightning and thunder determines the distance away from the storm.”

The idea is that every second that passes after a lightning strike indicates one mile of distance from the storm. This is a misconception, with a hint of truth to it.

According to the Cleveland Weather Examiner, it takes five seconds for thunder to travel one mile. So, if you see a flash of lightning and count ten seconds until you hear thunder, the storm is two miles away.

2. “Lightning always goes from the ground up”

The first lightning myth most people learn is that lightning always strikes down from the clouds. After this is proved false, we usually learn that lightning is transmitted from the ground up toward the clouds. However, what is usually not explained, is that there are unseen cloud-to-ground lightning strikes that do occur prior to the visible lightning bolt. So, lightning comes from both the cloud and the ground.

3. “You can drive a SUV or pickup truck through the flood waters if it doesn’t look too deep.”

You should never drive a vehicle through flood waters no matter how big or heavy the vehicle is, or how deep the water may look. Two feet of moving water can easily sweep a car or truck away. Flood waters can also appear shallow and end up being deeper than you think.

If you find yourself in need of help from flooding, water, or roof damage, in Dover, Uhrichsville, or Minerva, SERVPRO of New Philadelphia is available 24 hours day, 7 days a week! We will arrive as quickly as possible and begin to assist you. If you have any questions or need help, call (330) 556-4656 or visit our Website.