Pagasa Issues Thunderstorm Safety Tips

With many deaths attributed to lightning strikes across the country, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued safety tips during thunderstorms as the country transitions to the rainy season.

- By BELLA CARIASO

At a weather briefing yesterday, PAGASA weather specialist Benison Estareja said that thunderstorms will become more frequent.

He said that when there is a thunderstorm, people must go inside an enclosed structure such as a house, mall, or car to prevent the direct impact of lightning.

"Since lightning conducts electricity in objects, avoid going near objects like trees, electric posts and scaffoldings. If you are on the beach, avoid going near the shore. If you are on the streets, avoid puddles," Estareja added.

He said that when inside the house, avoid touching power tools.

"If you are near the sockets, do not go near and avoid touching appliances if necessary," he noted.