Severe Weather / Lightning Guidelines

When inclement weather is forecast all staff on duty at any park or facility should be observant of weather conditions. When severe weather that includes thunder or lightning is expected, these general guidelines will be followed. Safety of patrons is paramount.

Outdoor Facilities

• If a supervisor is on site and inclement weather is likely, before games or activities start, supervisors shall confirm with the officials/staff the department policy on thunder and lightning.
• If lightning is seen or thunder is heard, or if radar indicates a lightning strike within 20 miles of location, the storm is close enough to pose a risk of a lightning strike. Suspend play/swimming and take shelter immediately. Acceptable shelter is in a vehicle or inside a building. (Dugouts and picnic shelters are not suitable, safe structures during a lightning storm)
• If the officials/staff take no action in a reasonable amount of time (within minutes) and severe weather persists, the on-site supervisor shall suspend the activity and notify all park/pool patrons of the need to proceed to their vehicles or other enclosed substantial structure.
• Once play has been suspended, wait at least 30 minutes from the last sound of thunder or lightning witnessed before resuming play.
• Any subsequent thunder or lightning during the 30-minute waiting period resets the clock and a new 30-minute waiting period begins.
• Persons should not be permitted to return to the facilities until 30 minutes after the last time thunder was heard or lightning was seen.
• If severe weather persists or radar indicates prolonged activity, contact your supervisor about postponing games or closing the pool.
• Monitor weather radio or wireless devices for further updates.
• If we are in a tornado watch, weather conditions are favorable for tornado development, monitor conditions and be prepared to suspend play/swimming.
• If we are in a tornado warning, a tornado has been spotted and it is time to move to safe shelter immediately.

Indoor Facilities

• If a high percentage of storms are predicted in the area, employees should monitor any approaching storms.
• If lightning is impending directly above, Guest Services will alert the lifeguard and the pool must be cleared until storm completely passes.
• Monitor the weather radio for further updates.
• If we are in a tornado watch, weather conditions are favorable for tornado development, monitor conditions and be prepared to take emergency precautions.
• If we are in a tornado warning, a tornado has been spotted and it is time to move to safe shelter immediately. Tornado shelter at the Lee Beran Recreation Center is located in the locker rooms.