Many people are fascinated by severe weather. It can be beautiful, but it can also be deadly if you find yourself driving in it. Preparing yourself ahead of time is always best, but sometimes wild weather comes out of nowhere. Here are three examples of extreme weather situations and tips for driving safely in each one.

Tornados

Seeing a tornado in the distance can be a surprising and alarming experience. The good news is that if it’s far away, you can make a good assessment of what direction it’s going. If it’s a long way off, change direction. Contrary to popular belief, underpasses are not safe. Winds can actually be higher there and you risk blocking emergency vehicles. If it’s sudden and close, either get into a sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low area.

Hailstorms

Hail can accompany severe thunderstorms. Maybe you’ve even experienced car damage from it and had to contact a hail damage repair Denver CO shop. There’s an even stranger phenomenon known as gigantic hail. This can be lethal and accumulates at a frightening rate. If you encounter hail on the roadway, gigantic or otherwise, try to seek cover under a bridge or other shelter. Reducing your speed and getting off the road altogether is best.

Blizzards

Driving in heavy snow is never a good idea and it’s recommended to stay put if you can. If you drive into a blizzard while traveling, the best thing to do is to get off the road. Until you can safely do so, keep your lights on, drive slowly and maintain a good distance from the car in front of you. Keeping an emergency kit in your car with a blanket, water and a phone charger is a good idea, too.

Dangerous Weather

Strange weather has always intrigued people. The more dangerous the weather, the more interesting. However, driving in severe weather is another story. Try to avoid it altogether if possible, but if you’re taken by surprise, slow and easy is the key to staying safe.