MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas – A total of four people were hit by lightning during Tuesday’s line of severe storms in the Montgomery County area.
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According to officials, it happened in the Woodlands, where a 35-year-old man was hit by a lightning strike. And in Willis, two adults and a teen were also shocked by a down power line. All four people are expected to survive.
The storms, which had powerful winds reaching 75 miles per hour at times, resulted in widespread damage, including numerous downed trees and powerlines throughout the entire county.
“The Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management urges all residents to exercise extreme caution around storm-related debris and to avoid approaching any downed power lines, as they may still be energized and pose a serious risk.” officials said.
Here’s what to know about downed power lines and how to protect yourself according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International:
Use Precaution
- Downed power lines can energize the ground up to 35 feet away. Even more in wet conditions.
- Never drive over downed power lines or through water that is in contact with them
- Never try to move a downed power line. Even using items that typically are not conducive will not prevent injury or death
- If you see a downed line call 911
If a vehicle contacts a power line or utility pole stay away and call 911
- Consider all lines to be live and dangerous
- Stay in place or inside your vehicle unless you see fire or smoke
- Warn others to stay at least 35 feet away
- Tell others not to approach vehicles, downed lines, or anything that may be in contact with downed lines
- Call 911
In the Event of Fire or Smoke
- Do not touch the ground and vehicle at the same time
- Jump from vehicle with your feet together
- Shuffle away, avoid lifting your feet
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