DALLAS (KRLD) - The National Weather Service says severe weather is possible across North Texas Friday afternoon. The National Weather Service says damaging winds and tornadoes will be the main threat.
"Don't spend time worrying about what risk area you are in," the National Weather Service's Fort Worth office wrote in a statement. "Severe weather is a possibility at any location in North and Central Texas. Instead, review your plan for severe weather now."
Ahead of the front, the National Weather Service says storms could also produce large hail.
AAA Texas says people can plan ahead for the potential of severe weather by checking radar before leaving home or work Friday afternoon. AAA says wet weather contributes to almost a million crashes around the country each year.
"The last thing you want to do is get caught in a storm, out in the elements in your vehicle," says AAA's Daniel Armbruster. "Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe."
Armbruster also warns drivers not to park under an overpass to avoid hail. The National Weather Service says strong wind can pose a greater threat under an overpass, and blocking lanes can prevent police or firefighters from reaching an emergency.
"Pull your car into a garage if hail's in the forecast," Armbruster says. "If you're out, find shelter, even if it's a parking garage where you have to pay. It's going to be cheaper to pay a few bucks for a parking garage than to pay for the damage to your vehicle."
AAA sent these tips for people who may not be used to severe weather or not expecting severe weather in January"
Tornadoes and Wind Damage
- Know evacuation routes, shelter locations, and the safest and strongest rooms in your home.
- Make a plan to meet family members in the event you get separated.
- If you have time, reinforce windows with plywood or storm shutters.
- Bring your car, garbage cans, lawn chairs, umbrellas, and anything else that isn't anchored down inside; tie down whatever you can.
- If you're told to evacuate, pack what you need and get on the road. If a tornado is imminent, get to a storm shelter immediately. Storms can intensify in seconds, so don't delay.
How to stay safe:
- If you have a radio handy, stay up to date on the latest storm news so you know when it's safe to come out of your home or shelter.
- Keep your head down and face away from the wind, keep away from windows, and stay as insulated from the storm as possible.
- Whether you're in a storm shelter, your basement, a closet, or other safety area, try to remain in one place until it's safe to come out.
- If you're in an open area, lie flat in a ditch and try to avoid flying debris; stay away from bridges and overpasses.
Be Alert and Prepared for Wet Roads
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that wet weather factors into nearly a million crashes annually across the U.S. Here are some safety tips all drivers should be aware of during periods of heavy rain and possible flooding.
- Turn Around Don't Drown. Never attempt to drive on a road that's covered with water. Turn around and find another route.
- Personal Safety First. Should you encounter a situation where your vehicle takes on water, always think of personal safety first. Leaving a vehicle to get to safer, higher ground to prevent injury or loss of life should always be the first priority.
- Don't use cruise control. Driving on slick roads means your tires will have less traction, and you should be prepared to adjust accordingly. If something goes wrong while you have cruise control on, there may not be enough time to take over the vehicle.
- Increase your following distance. When facing reduced visibility, you and other drivers will likely need more time to react to surrounding traffic. Leave ample space between you and nearby vehicles to reduce the need for sudden reactions.
- Drive more slowly. Hydroplaning is an ever-present danger with as little as one-twelfth of an inch of water on the road. Some tires can lose contact with the road even at 35 mph. Reducing your speed will help you remain in control of the vehicle.
- Know how to respond to a skid. If your vehicle begins to skid, remain calm. Avoid slamming on your brakes; doing so could throw your vehicle off balance and out of your control. Instead, look and steer in the direction you want your vehicle to go.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Vehicle maintenance is part of safe driving in general; it ensures everything is running smoothly. Be sure to check the following components; that way, you have less to worry about when you need to drive in the rain:
Windshield Wipers: Keep your vision as clear as possible by replacing your wipers every six to 12 months. Streaking or chattering are signs that it's time to put on a new set.
Lights: Ensure your headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals are functioning properly so other drivers will see you more clearly. Clean haziness from your headlight covers.
Tires: Check them at least once a month; maintain your car's recommended tire pressure. If you see uneven or excess tread wear, consider a suspension repair or wheel alignment. Drive responsibly to help keep yourself, and others, safe.
