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    Update: Thunderstorms with pea-sized hail in Yosemite Thursday – winds gusting up to 40 mph
    • June 5, 2025

    The National Weather Service issued an updated weather alert at 3:26 p.m. on Thursday for strong thunderstorms in effect until 4 p.m. for Yosemite.

    Wind gusts of up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) are anticipated.

    “At 3:26 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm 11 miles west of Tioga Pass, or 17 miles south of Twin Lakes, moving northeast at 10 mph,” according to the NWS Hanford CA. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

    Locations impacted by the alert include Tuolumne High Sierra Camp, Tuolumne Meadows, Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp, Dana Meadows, May Lake High Sierra Camp, Snow Flat, Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center, Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows Campground.

    The NWS said, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle.”

    Staying safe as lightning approaches: Expert advice

    Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the NWS. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.

    To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, keep these recommendations in mind:

    Lightning safety plan:

    • When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
    • Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
    • Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.

    Indoors safety measures:

    • Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
    • Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.

    Wait for the all-clear:

    • After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
    • It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

    When indoor shelter isn’t available:

    If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

    • Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
    • Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
    • If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
    • Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
    • Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

    In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.

    Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain

    When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here’s your guide from the NWS to staying safe during downpours:

    Beware of rapid water flow:

    In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

    Maintain safe driving distances:

    Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

    Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

    On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

    Choose your lane wisely:

    Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

    Visibility matters:

    Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

    Watch out for slippery roads:

    The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

    Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

    Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

    Mind your windshield wipers:

    Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.

    When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

    By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.

    ​ Orange County Register 

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