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Lightning

Table of Contents

Introduction

Lightning is one of nature’s most unpredictable and deadly hazards. Every year, people are killed or seriously injured because they underestimate how fast thunderstorms move or how far lightning can strike.

Lightning is not just a summer risk. It can strike during any thunderstorm, and danger isn’t limited to open fields—homes, workplaces, and even vehicles can be unsafe if precautions aren’t taken.

This guide explains the main lightning hazards, the safety steps recognized worldwide, and what to do before, during, and after a storm. The recommendations come from the National Weather Service, FEMA, OSHA, and other safety agencies.

Hazard Types

Direct Strikes
Rare but often fatal. Lightning travels directly through the body, damaging the heart, nervous system, and causing severe burns.
Side Flash / Splash
Occurs when lightning strikes a taller object (like a tree or building) and jumps sideways to a nearby person.
Ground Current
Lightning spreads out through the ground after a strike, injuring or killing people, animals, and livestock in the area. Ground current is responsible for many lightning-related deaths.
Conduction
Current travels through conductive materials such as wiring, plumbing, fences, or metal structures. Even indoors, lightning can travel through pipes and cables.
Medical Impacts
Lightning can trigger cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, burns, seizures, or secondary trauma from falls and reflex convulsions.
Fire and Infrastructure Damage
Strikes can ignite wildfires, damage buildings, and cause power outages or communication disruptions.

Preparation

Before the event

  • Monitor weather forecasts and thunderstorm advisories. If you hear thunder, you’re already at risk.

  • Identify safe shelter options: a substantial building or fully enclosed hard-topped vehicle are the only reliable outdoor choices.

  • For outdoor work or events, stop activities well before storms arrive. Use the “10-second rule”: if lightning flash-to-thunder is <10 seconds, shelter immediately.

  • Unplug electronics and avoid wired appliances before storms to prevent power surges.

  • If boating, swimming, or doing water activities, be prepared to leave the water immediately—water is a dangerous conductor.

  • Review emergency/medical plans, especially if you or family members use implanted devices sensitive to strong electrical fields.

Checklist essentials

Trusted weather alert systems (apps, NOAA Weather Radio).
Shelter plan for home, work, recreation, and outdoor events.
Surge protectors and backup power for essential equipment.
Lightning safety plan at worksites and events, with signage and designated safe areas.

During the event

  • Move immediately to a substantial building or fully enclosed metal-topped vehicle. Do not shelter under trees, canopies, or near fences.

  • Indoors: close windows/doors, stay away from electrical wiring, plumbing, and corded phones. Avoid showers or baths.

  • Unplug electronics; don’t use appliances.

  • In vehicles: remain inside, but avoid touching metal frames or doors.

  • If no safe shelter: crouch low with feet together, minimize ground contact, and never lie flat.

  • Leave open fields, hilltops, and all bodies of water immediately.

  • Spread out if in a group to reduce risk of multiple injuries.

  • Apply the “10-second rule”: if flash-to-thunder is under 10 seconds, you’re in immediate danger.

  • Wait at least 15–30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming outdoor activities.

After the event

  • Remain sheltered until 15–30 minutes have passed since the last thunder.

  • Check yourself and others for burns, disorientation, or cardiac arrest. Call emergency services immediately.

  • Begin CPR and use an AED if available. Quick action can save lives.

  • Avoid downed power lines, damaged trees, and fires caused by strikes.

  • Test and restore electronics only when the storm has fully cleared.

  • Review what worked and update your family/workplace safety plan.

Special Populations

Children

Teach simple safety rules: “When thunder roars, go indoors.” Ensure camps, sports fields, and schools have shelter plans.

Older Adults

Mobility limitations may delay evacuation—arrange buddy systems or support in advance.

People with Disabilities / Medical Needs

Plan for accessible shelters. Unplug sensitive medical equipment and prepare for backup power.

Businesses

Implement lightning safety procedures for outdoor workers. Post signage, log exposures, and ensure shutdown protocols.

Pets & Animals

Bring pets indoors at the first sound of thunder. Avoid walking them near traffic in low visibility. Move livestock to safe, enclosed shelters.

Quick Reference Tables

Lightning Safety Guidance
Alert / Condition Action Required
Thunder heard Seek safe shelter immediately
< 10 seconds rule Immediate danger—lightning close, shelter at once
“Eye” or break Do not be fooled—stay sheltered, danger still present
After storm Wait 15–30 minutes since last thunder before resuming

Key Reminder: Never resume outdoor activity until at least 15–30 minutes after the final thunder.

Additional notes/thoughts

Before thunderstorm season, ask:

  • Do I have a fast, reliable way to get lightning alerts?

  • Have I identified the closest safe shelter for each location I visit?

  • Does everyone (kids, elders, staff) know the “10-second rule”?

  • Is my emergency plan updated for people needing extra assistance or equipment?

  • Are my first-aid kits, surge protectors, and AEDs ready?

Lightning is rare but catastrophic. Awareness, preparation, and fast action save lives—every time.

References

Image Credits

https://unsplash.com/photos/thunderstorm-with-dark-clouds-5Mh8iz9vqpY

https://unsplash.com/photos/a-tree-that-has-a-red-line-on-it-rqfjvF949ng

https://www.pexels.com/photo/city-lit-up-at-night-258173/

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