What to Do in a Lightning Storm

Did you know that if you live to be 80, your chances are about 1 in 3,000 of being hit by lightning? Read on to learn more!

Lightning is dangerous

In the United States, approximately 300 people are hit by lightning strikes each year. Per WFTV 9, a direct hit by a bolt of lightning kills about 50 people per year. Those who survive often suffer permanent damage to the brain, heart, or other parts of the body. While lightning can strike suddenly, there are some lifesaving precautions people can take to avoid being a victim. Acting fast and knowing what to do can be lifesaving.

Take weather reports seriously

Some people underestimate the power of weather, believe that they are immune to bad things, or don’t take weather reports seriously. However, there are 25 million lightning strikes in the US per year. So, weather reports should be taken seriously. When planning outdoor adventures, such as a picnic in the park, consider the weather conditions. Should lightning storms be expected, it’s best to move the event indoors ahead of the storm or reschedule. 

What makes lightning?

Rising and descending air within a thunderstorm causes a build up and discharge of electrical energy between positively charged and negatively charged areas. This results in lightning. There are three categories of lightning movement: cloud to cloud, cloud to ground, and ground to cloud.

Caught by surprise?

Sometimes even the best prepared people can face weather-related issues. In fact, lightning can even occur when the sky is clear and blue and there is no visible storm. However, it is more likely that lightning will strike during a storm. As weather experts typically explain, if you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck. National Weather Service shares, “When thunder roars, go indoors.”

When venturing outdoors…

Monitor weather and avoid unnecessary risks. Stay on top of weather news via The Weather Channel or local news.

Should a storm approach, seek shelter indoors away from windows and doors.

While indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electronic appliances, and plumbing fixtures.

Wait for the storm to pass. Exercise caution when going back outside as lightening strikes are still possible.

What to avoid

If you are stuck outside during a lightning storm and are unable to get indoors, avoid these:

• Open fields
• Hilltops or ridge crests
• Tall or isolated trees
• Bodies of water
• Metal conductors like fences and poles
• Other people (Groups are encouraged to spread out to avoid multiple injuries/casualties)

Camping in an open area? What you must know!

Do not seek protection in a tent. Rather, seek low-lying areas. If you are stuck in a forested area, stay close to the lower stands of trees. Remember that lightning generally strikes the highest structure around, albeit there are exceptions. Note that wearing rubber soled shoes will not prevent a person from being hit by a lightning strike. Nor will it provide much protection. Sheltering in a vehicle may provide some storm protection but rubber wheels do not stop lightning strikes. To minimize injury from a lightning strike to a car, one must avoid touching metal.

Handling emergencies

Should someone be hit by lightning, immediately call 9-1-1 for help. If necessary, do CPR or use a defibrillator. If lightning persists, move the injured person to a safe place to avoid danger to helpers.

In summary

Lightning strikes are not uncommon, particularly in hot spots like Florida, the state which leads as the most lightning prone due to its unique location. Regardless, common-sense actions like heeding weather warnings, seeking appropriate shelter from storms, and avoiding using electricity and plumbing during storms can go a long way in offering protection from lightning strikes.

This article is purely informational. For up-to-date information on weather safety and facts, visit weather.gov.

Like this article and interested in learning more about storms? Click here for our article on Hurricane safety.