Summer weather…there’s nothing like it. At one moment, you can be teeing off on the first hole, enjoying a joyful drenching of sunshine. By the time you’ve hit hole five, however, you’re getting a drenching of a different kind, and are cowering under a tree hoping for a reprieve. These conditions can be particularly rough if you’re in the car, but they don’t have to be. Here are tips for driving in severe summer weather, particularly thunderstorms, hail and high winds.

Driving in Severe Summer Weather

Driving in Thunderstorms

As you likely know, “thunderstorm” can describe any number of things, including the next two items we’ll be discussing. Since virtually all of America gets thunderstorms, though, and since they usually involve thunder and lightning, they specifically become problematic when you’re driving.
If you know that a thunderstorm is on its way, be certain that you have your headlights on, and reduce your speed. Also, be aware that roads may be slightly slick, so don’t follow closely to the car in front of you.
Read More: Safety in Flash Flooding
If the storm takes a turn for the worse, pull your car off the road and away from trees and power lines. Stay inside the car, turn on your emergency flashers, and avoid metal surfaces.

Driving in Hail

Depending on the wind speed and size of the hailstones, hail can cause varying degrees of danger. Windshields are reinforced to help defend against flying objects, but most side and rear windows aren’t as strong. So, when the hail starts flying, take shelter under an underpass or in a garage. If this isn’t possible, cover up inside your vehicle, with your back to the windows that are taking the brunt of the hail.
Read More: Safe Driving in Construction Zones

Driving in High Winds or Tornadoes

High winds make your car difficult to control, particularly if you’re in an SUV or a vehicle that rides high. If the wind begins dictating where you’re headed, get off the road as soon as possible. Then, if a tornado forms, it’s not smart to be in your car. Instead, seek shelter in a building, or lie low in a ditch away from powerlines and debris.
With all of this to consider, it’s also a good idea to keep an emergency kit, and to have a weather app on your phone. We hope that you stay safe on the roads this summer, and that you’ll come see us soon at EVS Auto Group!