Thunderstorm Watch Issued Thursday For Howard County

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued Thursday in Maryland that includes Howard County. Watch 96 is in effect until 4 p.m. for Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Harford, Howard, Kent, Montgomery, Price George's, Queen Anne's and Talbot counties. Baltimore City also is included in the watch, which was issued by the National Weather Service shortly before noon.

A thunderstorm watch means residents should be aware that there is a possibility for storms, but that they are not in any immediate danger.

The National Weather Service advises residents do the following:

• Unplug electronic equipment: Power surges from lightning can damage computers, monitors and TVs, and cause sparks that might start a fire.
• If it’s safe, bring in outdoor furniture and other items that could blow away; these may become a hazard.
• Stay inside a building or car that’s not a convertible. Rubber tires don't protect people from lightning so avoid touching metal inside the car.
• Close windows, shutters, blinds, shades and curtains, which will help keep out wind, rain, and broken glass.
• Make sure outside doors are securely closed, which will help keep out wind and rain.