The National Weather Service has issued a warning for strong thunderstorms until 6 p.m. for Oregon Lower Treasure Valley, Baker and Malheur counties, and could produce wind gusts of up to 50 mph. The weather service suggests that if outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, killing approximately 20 people annually. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms approach, with thunderstorms typically occurring when directly overhead. Take these steps to ensure safety during a thunderstorm: Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, avoid tall, isolated trees, and other prominent objects, and stay close to lower stands of trees.