On Tuesday at 4:12 p.m. the National Weather Service issued an updated severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 4:30 p.m. for Broome, Cortland and Tioga counties.
The storms could bring quarter-sized hail (1 inch) and wind gusts of up to 60 mph.
“At 4:12 p.m., a severe thunderstorm was located near Richford, or 7 miles southwest of Marathon, moving north at 25 mph,” according to the weather service. “Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”
Locations impacted by the warning include Virgil, Marathon, Lapeer, Hunts Corners and Center Lisle.
The weather service states, “For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.”

Staying safe as lightning approaches: Expert advice
Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.
To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, keep these recommendations in mind:
Lightning safety plan:
- When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
- Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
- Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.
Indoors safety measures:
- Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
- These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.
Wait for the all-clear:
- After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming…




