Massive hailstones expected as thunderstorms roll in Tuesday

The National Weather Service (NWS) in San Francisco issued a warning about strong thunderstorms affecting several areas, including Santa Lucia Mountains and Los Padres National Forest. This alert was issued at 2:06 p.m. and extended until 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday. It involved expected wind gusts reaching up to 30 mph and marble-sized hailstones measuring 0.5 inches.

Storm Impact Areas

The areas likely to be affected include:

• Northern Salinas Valley
• Hollister Valley
• Carmel Valley

Particularly, the storm was located near Spreckels, approximately 8 miles south of Salinas, moving southeast at a speed of 10 mph. Residents were advised about potential minor damage to outdoor objects, along with possible dysparture of tree limbs due to gusty winds.

Safety Advisory

Residents are urged to stay informed about weather updates via local radio and television stations, as the storm has the potential to intensify. Additionally, torrential rainfall could result in flash flooding. Therefore, driving through flooded roads is strongly discouraged.

Lightning Safety Tips

Lightning strikes the US about 25 million times each year, causing around 20 fatalities annually. To stay safe during thunderstorms, consider the following precautions:

• Develop a plan to reach a safer location when outdoors.
• Seek shelter upon hearing thunder.
• Avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing, and windows.
• Remain indoors for 30 minutes after the last observed lightning or thunder.

Outdoor Safety Measures

If unable to find indoor shelter:

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, and ridge tops.
• Stay clear of tall, solitary trees or elevated structures.
• Stay near smaller tree groupings when in a forest.
• Disperse if in a group.
• When camping, use valleys or low spots.
• Avoid contact with water, wet items, and metal objects.

Driving in Adverse Weather

To navigate safely during rainfall, adhere to the following:

• Switch on headlights.
• Opt for middle lanes and higher ground.
• Avoid puddles to prevent hydroplaning.
• Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles to improve visibility.
• Avoid flooded roads to prevent mechanical issues.

Understanding Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle slides on wet roads. This is due to insufficient traction, with contributing factors including:

• High vehicle speed
• Water depth
• Inadequate tire tread depth

In case of hydroplaning:

• Slow down by easing off the accelerator.
• Turn into the skid to realign the tires.
• Gently straighten the wheels once traction is regained.
• Brake gently and normally with anti-lock brakes, or pump the brakes in older vehicles.

For comprehensive updates and warnings, it is essential to monitor information from the National Weather Service.