Lightning and You

Although, the study of lightning covers many centuries, it continues, according to Lightning.com. However, one point about lightning is evident to all. It's powerful, an average lightning strike may contain enough electricity to energize 10 million homes like yours for a month.

Anything that powerful can kill, and lightning does. In the United States, it's estimated between 50-100 people are killed by lightning strikes each year. In a power comparison, it's estimated tornadoes kill an average of 64 people each year. One might think tornadoes would kill more, because of the damage they do. They don't, because warning systems generally give people time to take cover before a tornado strikes. In addition, people fear tornadoes more than lightning. How many of you would stand on your porch and watch a tornado, in your neighborhood? Have you ever stood on your porch and watched a thunder and lightning storm?

Normally, your home is a safe-haven during a thunderstorm. However, if lightning ever strikes your home, or in the general area of your home, it can be a deathtrap. When lightning strikes, the electricity follows the wiring throughout your home, the switches on the wall and lamp switches are electrified. If you touch a switch, you could be electrocuted.. Water is a conductor of electricity, and if you're in the shower, washing your hands or doing dishes when lightning strikes, you may be electrocuted. If lightning strikes a tree, or the ground near your home it can enter your house, and the above becomes true, again. In addition, any appliance plugged in when the electricity from a lightning strike enters your house, may explode from the power of the electricity.

To be safe, unplug appliances, and stay away from water during a thunderstorm. Thunderstorms normally are short-term, and the life you safe may be your own. If you're outside, seek cover in a grounded building. Stay away from solitary trees, and other tall single objects. Don't lay on the ground, because if lightning hits in your vicinity, you may soak up the voltage.

Should you be driving, and lightning strikes your car, chances are your car will be immobilized. Don't worry about other traffic, let them honk their horns, or drive around you. You sit still, with your hands in your lap. Don't touch anything, because your car is full of electricity. Don't attempt to get out, unless your car is on fire. If you must get out, don't touch any metal. The tale that your tires are rubber, and will absorb the electricity is not true. Yours tires will probably burn to a crisp, because of the power that entered them. Stay in your car, until the storm is over.

No matter where you've found cover from a thunderstorm, stay there until you no longer hear thunder. As long as you hear thunder, you're vulnerable for a lightning strike.

Dan Robinson: Lightening Safety: The Myths and the Basics: lightning.com