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Five things to avoid during thunderstorm in UAE

Abu Dhabi - Authorities urged people to take utmost precautions during thunderstorms to avoid the dangers of lightning.

The UAE's disaster planning authority has warned the public against five things when thunderstorm occurs to avoid the risks of being struck by lightning.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority said people should avoid the use of mobile phones or other electrical gargets, standing under high trees and electric poles, staying outdoors or in high places, touching metallic objects and avoid showering because pipes and bathroom extensions can connect electricity to lightning.
The warning followed the death of an Asian worker who was struck by lightning in Al Ain City on Friday afternoon.
The Abu Dhabi Civil Defence said the powerful lightning hit the roof of the home where the man was working.
When the fire crew and rescue teams went to the scene, they found the Asian man dead. The lightning also caused material damage to the place, according to Abu Dhabi Civil Defense.
The disaster planning authorities are urging people to take utmost precautions during thunderstorms to avoid the dangers of lightning.
Officials explained that lightning is a flash of light in the sky, occurring during a thunderstorm and caused by a discharge of electricity.
"It is a strong flash caused by a collision of two clouds, one carrying a negative electric charge and the other a positive one. The lightning strike is followed by a loud sound from the sky called 'thunder'," said authorities.
"Lightning is very dangerous and people have to take extra precautions when a thunderstorm occurs. In most cases people struck by lightning happen to have taken shelter under shades or trees which is very dangerous because trees and tall shades help lightning strikes to reach the earth."
Officials advised people to immediately seek shelter in a nearby building, or their homes or cars if a thunderstorm occurs.
Does and don'ts during a thunderstorm, according to the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority:
-Unplug the power supply for home appliances to protect them from the passage of a thunderbolt through the electric current.
-Move immediately to the nearest building or to your car to guarantee a safe haven.
-Avoid standing under trees and electricity poles.
-Avoid working or standing in upland areas or on the roofs of buildings under construction.
-Lightning may cause fire. Prepare the appropriate firefighting equipment.
-If you are away from a safe place during a thunderstorm, the risk of being hit by a thunderbolt is higher.
-If you're in an open space during a thunderstorm, avoid using your mobile phone unless it is absolutely necessary.
-Stay away from windows and metal doors.
-If you hear a call for evacuation through the media or competent security authorities, conform immediately and make sure you and your family are safe.
-When driving your car during heavy rainfall, turn on your vehicle's emergency flasher and lights. Reduce speed and do not overtake another vehicle. Leave enough distance between vehicles. Park your vehicle completely off the road if necessary.
-Drive with extreme caution on the roads for fear of landslides or limited visibility.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com