Lightning shows are incredible to watch, but they are a powerful yet unpredictable natural phenomenon. While beautiful from a distance, it can be extremely dangerous if you’re caught outdoors or unprepared close to the point of origin. Every year, lightning strikes result in injuries, fatalities, and property damage. When you understand how to avoid lightning threats, you can significantly increase your safety, and it is important information to know if you live in areas where lightning happens often, or if you like to be outdoors often. Here’s what you need to know in order to avoid lightning threats:
1. Understand the Basics of Lightning
Lightning is the discharge of electricity from a thunderstorm. It often targets tall objects, metal, and water but can strike anywhere. Thunder is a warning sign that lightning is near; if you can hear thunder, you’re close enough to be struck.
2. Check Weather Forecasts Before Going Outdoors
Always check the weather forecast if you plan to spend time outdoors. If thunderstorms are predicted, reconsider outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or sports. Weather apps often provide real-time updates, including lightning alerts, helping you stay informed of any risks.
3. The 30-30 Rule
The 30-30 rule is a simple method to assess how close a storm is. Once you see lightning, count to 30. If you hear thunder before reaching 30 seconds, the storm is within 6 miles, and you should seek shelter immediately. After the storm passes, wait 30 minutes from the last sound of thunder before resuming outdoor activities.
4. Seek Proper Shelter
If you’re outdoors and a storm approaches, your best protection is a fully enclosed building with plumbing and electricity. Cars with a metal roof can also provide safety, as the metal frame channels the electrical current around the vehicle. Avoid shelters like tents, pavilions, or sheds, which do not offer protection from lightning.
5. Avoid Open Areas and High Ground
If you find yourself outside when lightning starts, move quickly to lower ground. Avoid hilltops, open fields, and wide-open spaces where you could be the tallest object. Do not stand under isolated trees, as they are prone to lightning strikes.
6. Stay Away from Water
Water is a strong conductor of electricity, making it dangerous during a lightning storm. Avoid swimming in pools, lakes, rivers, or oceans if you hear thunder. Even fishing or boating during a storm is extremely risky.
7. Avoid Electrical Equipment and Plumbing
When indoors, avoid using electrical appliances like computers, televisions, or anything plugged into an outlet. Lightning can strike electrical lines and travel through wiring. Similarly, avoid using water, including faucets, showers, and sinks, as plumbing can conduct electricity.
8. Unplug Electronics Before the Storm
Unplug valuable electronics, such as computers and televisions, during thunderstorms. This prevents potential damage from power surges caused by nearby lightning strikes.
9. Crouch Down if No Shelter Is Available
If you’re stuck outside without any accessible shelter, make yourself as small as possible to reduce your risk. Crouch low to the ground with your feet close together and your head tucked in. Don’t lie flat, as this increases your contact with the ground and the risk of being hit by ground current.
10. Know the Signs of Imminent Lightning Strikes
In rare cases, lightning may give warning signs before striking. Hair standing on end, tingling sensations, or hearing a buzzing sound could indicate an imminent strike. If you experience these signs, crouch down immediately with your feet together, keeping your body low.
11. Help Those Struck by Lightning
If someone has been struck by lightning, they don’t carry an electric charge and are safe to touch. Call emergency services immediately and start CPR if needed. Quick action can save a life. If you are the victim of fire damage that was caused by a lightning strike, you will want to call us, Tobin Restoration, to help you restore and recover.
Lightning safety requires awareness and preparation. By understanding weather conditions, seeking shelter, and avoiding dangerous behaviors, you can protect yourself and others from the unpredictable power of lightning. Always prioritize safety and follow these precautions to reduce the risk of lightning threats.
