Hi there! You aren't alone. Cooker is petrified also and it's been a difficult season for him. He's spent the summer to date pretty stressed. Basically we let him find his own safe spot which is his bed in our basement family room. When the skies darken or he feels a rain drop he panics to get there and we let him stay until he feels comfortable coming up under his own steam.
As for crates, the plastic Vari Kennels are the best and most recommended. Less chance of getting something stuck between the bars of the metal ones or scratched on a ragged edge. The Vari Kennels are safer, more den like and easy to clean.

Hopefully the number of storms starts to dwindle soon and we can all enjoy the rest of the summer.

Hope this helps!

Thanks so much Sherry! (That's been Noah's exact behaviour too.)