Buzz
A display of both danger and beauty. View more stunning images of lightning.
Comstock/ThinkstockWhile you may admire Mother Nature, during a thunderstorm, your safest option is to find shelter in a solid building. The sound of thunder means you're in danger, even if there's no visual sign of a storm. In the U.S. alone, each year, lightning claims dozens of lives and injures hundreds, most of whom are caught outdoors and fail to seek safety in time.
Here are five key actions you can take to protect yourself from the destructive power of a thunderstorm.
5: Seek Shelter
Lightning typically strikes the tallest object in the vicinity. If you or someone you know happens to be the highest point, you're in significant danger. Find a low spot, a solid building, or a vehicle with a metal roof to take refuge in until the storm has passed. Don’t delay finding shelter; the moment you hear thunder, take action. A false sense of security is the greatest threat to your life. Weather can unleash tremendous destruction. Never take your safety for granted.
Every year, over 25 million cloud-to-ground lightning strikes are recorded in the U.S.
4: Stay Updated
A darkening sky is just the beginning.
Comstock/ThinkstockMeteorology may not be your hobby, but it still pays to stay informed about the weather. National Weather Service broadcasts announce severe thunderstorm watches and warnings for counties across the nation. Your local news, weather and even entertainment stations will keep you updated on these important changes via screen crawls and special cut-ins.
Don't leave it at that, though. Watch the sky. Severe thunderstorm watches and warnings are issued when damaging wind or hail is possible; lightning is always part of a thunderstorm. A dark sky and a brisk wind can be signs of an approaching storm. You can also help yourself stay prepared by having a battery-operated weather radio on hand for emergencies. When a thunderstorm is imminent or even suspected, get everyone indoors immediately. It's your best protection.
3: Have a Plan
Although thunderstorms can strike any time of year, they occur most frequently in summer during the afternoon and evening hours. This can be a time when you're planning outdoor family activities. Be prepared for the unexpected by teaching your family about the importance of finding shelter immediately, and when that's unavailable, finding a low-lying spot to take cover. Locating a covered picnic area or sheltering in a tent isn't enough protection. You need to find a sturdy building with a solid foundation.
Past lightning-related fatalities have occurred during these outdoor activities: riding a lawnmower, horseback riding, fishing, standing beneath trees, golfing, and swimming.
Each year, approximately 16 million thunderstorms strike around the globe.
2: Steer Clear of Tall Structures and Metal Surfaces
Since lightning typically strikes tall objects, being near or beneath one can put you in harm’s way. Avoid standing near tall trees, power poles, or even high fence posts, as these are prime targets for strikes. Also, stay away from metal fences, like chain-link, which, while not attracting lightning, are excellent conductors.
If you're carrying an umbrella, keep in mind that it could make you the tallest object around. While perfect for rain, it’s best to put it away when a thunderstorm strikes.
1: Understand the Facts
Many myths surround thunderstorms and lightning. It's crucial to know the truth to avoid making dangerous decisions:
- Rubber-soled shoes don't offer protection against lightning.
- If someone is struck by lightning, they won't retain a charge, so it's safe to help them without putting yourself in danger.
- A lightning strike can travel through a telephone landline and harm someone inside the house. This happens annually in the U.S., though cell phones are safe.
- Similar to phone lines, plumbing systems can conduct lightning, so avoid using the bathtub or shower during a storm.
- Structures like sheds, porches, and tents don't shield you from lightning. If you're outside watching the storm, head back indoors immediately.
- Rubber tires on cars don’t protect you from lightning. However, the steel frame and roof of the car may. Just refrain from touching any metal parts inside.
Hail can be just as striking in a thunderstorm as lightning, and it causes over one billion dollars in property and crop damage every year.
