Thunder is a clear reminder to move from outdoor exposure to a safer indoor place. Seychelles weather can change quickly, so make a habit of checking the Seychelles Meteorological Authority and other trusted local updates before outdoor work, boating, travel or gatherings. A forecast is useful, but hearing thunder means it is time to act rather than wait for rain.
Before a storm, bring loose garden items, laundry and lightweight equipment inside or secure them without putting yourself outdoors once winds rise. Close windows and doors, keep away from glass, and choose an interior room away from the most exposed openings. Make sure phones are charged and keep a battery light available. Know how children, older people and anyone with mobility or sensory needs will reach shelter.
Inside, avoid using electrical equipment connected to outlets and postpone showers, washing dishes and other contact with plumbing while thunder is present. Do not stand under a veranda, gazebo, tree or other open-sided shelter. If you are outside, move steadily toward a substantial enclosed building; never shelter beside isolated trees. If driving, slow down, avoid flooded roads and stop somewhere clear of falling branches and wires when necessary.
Expect interruptions to power and communications. Use battery lighting rather than candles, and keep refrigerator doors closed. Never touch fallen wires, poles or damaged electrical equipment. Do not walk or drive through floodwater: it can hide holes, contamination and electrical hazards. Wait for reliable information before leaving shelter and check on neighbours only when routes are safe.
Practise the household routine on a calm day: who brings in outdoor items, who checks pets, where everyone shelters and how you will reconnect if separated. Keep the plan short and visible, while avoiding reliance on an invented emergency number; use the current official contact information for your island and situation.
Practical checklist
- Monitor trusted weather updates and act on warnings early.
- Move indoors at the first thunder; stay away from windows and plumbing.
- Use torches or battery lamps, not candles during outages.
- Keep away from fallen wires and damaged trees.
- Never cross floodwater on foot or in a vehicle.
Source note: For Seychelles warnings and instructions, follow the Seychelles Meteorological Authority (meteo.sc) and relevant local authorities. The other links below are general international guidance, not Seychelles-specific requirements.
Further guidance
- American Red Cross: Thunderstorm safety
- Seychelles Meteorological Authority: Impact-based forecasting and early warnings
- CDC: Re-entering a flooded home safely
An insight from the Development and Resilience Research Monitor (DRRM).