Lightning strike safety distance and other thunderstorm dangers to try and avoid

A yellow weather warning is about to come into place across Merseyside with the Met Office predicting even more thunderstorms across the region.

The warning comes into effect on Tuesday morning at 3am until 11pm  - when  storms are set to hit the city.

With even more stormy weather on the way, it's important to know what steps you need to take to stay safe when lightning strikes.

If you can hear the clouds rumbling, chances are the storm is close enough for you to be hit by lightning - it can strike up to 10 miles away from the centre of a storm.

What causes thunder and lightning

The best advice is to count the seconds between seeing lightning and hearing thunder - if it is less than 30 seconds, there is a danger.

Here's a full list of what steps to take to protect yourself - and the things you definitely shouldn't do in a storm.

What to do

• Before the storm hits, make sure you unplug all non-essential appliances, including the television, as lightning can cause power surges.
• If outside, avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects. Try to find shelter, but avoid sheltering near any of these objects.
• If you find yourself in an exposed location, it's best to squat close to the ground, with your hands on your knees and your head tucked between them. Try to touch as little of the ground with your body as possible, do not lie down on the ground.
• If you feel your hair stand on end, it means lightning is about to strike and you should drop into the brace position immediately.
• Bring your pets inside - being in the house is the best option for every member of your family, pets included.

What not to do

• Avoid using taps and sinks - metal pipes can conduct electricity.
• Don't make landline phone calls unless it's an emergency - telephone lines can conduct electricity.
• Don't take a shower. For the same reason you should avoid taps and sinks, a bolt can travel through water pipes and electrify you.
• Don't put up an umbrella if you're caught in a storm - the metal could direct the current into your body.
• Don't go outside too soon after a thunderstorm - it's best to wait until at least 30 minutes after you see the last flash of lightning.
• Avoid activities such as golf or fishing, if you were tempted to go out and do them in a thunderstorm.