Trusted weather agencies

These sources can provide information about storm tracks, warnings, evacuation orders, rainfall, wind speeds, and other hazards.

A viral photograph can show you what a storm looked like.

An official warning can tell you what the storm means for your safety.

If the Power Goes Out

Severe storms can damage electrical infrastructure.

If your electricity goes out, keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible.

Use flashlights rather than candles when possible.

If you use a generator, never operate it inside a house, garage, basement, or other enclosed area.

Generators produce carbon monoxide, an invisible and potentially fatal gas.

They should be placed outdoors in a well-ventilated location and kept safely away from doors, windows, and vents.

Also avoid touching fallen electrical wires.

A wire that appears inactive may still be energized.

After the Storm, The Danger May Not Be Over

People sometimes assume that once the rain stops, the danger has passed.

That's not always true.

After a severe storm, hazards can include:

• Floodwater
• Downed power lines
• Damaged buildings
• Broken glass
• Falling branches
• Unstable trees
• Gas leaks
• Structural damage

Don't enter damaged buildings until authorities or qualified professionals determine that they are safe.

If you encounter a fallen power line, stay far away and report it to the appropriate utility or emergency service.

The Most Important Warning

The dramatic photographs in this image are a reminder of how powerful atmospheric systems can become.

But don't let a frightening social-media image cause unnecessary panic.

Instead, focus on verified information.

Check the date.

Check the location.

Check official weather alerts.

Know your local emergency procedures.

And if authorities issue an evacuation or shelter order, follow it immediately.

Severe weather can change rapidly, and preparation is often far more valuable than trying to predict exactly what will happen from a photograph.

Stay Alert, Not Panicked

Dark skies, violently bending trees, enormous storm clouds, and torrential rain can be genuinely dangerous.

But the best response isn't panic.

It's preparation.

Keep emergency supplies available. Know where you can shelter. Have a way to receive weather alerts. Avoid flooded roads and exposed areas during thunderstorms.

And remember that a dramatic photograph circulating online does not necessarily mean the storm shown is happening right now or in your area.

The safest approach is simple: verify the weather information, follow official warnings, and take severe-weather alerts seriously.

When nature turns the sky dark, preparation can make all the difference.