When lightning strikes during a thunderstorm, it is crucial to seek safe shelter immediately. A sturdy structure or a vehicle with a metal enclosure are the best places to be during a thunderstorm. Chris Vagasky, a meteorologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison recommends checking weather forecasts regularly and reconsidering outdoor plans if a thunderstorm is approaching, especially if it is close to water.
Beaches are especially dangerous during thunderstorms as lightning tends to strike the tallest objects and water is a good conductor of electricity. Therefore, staying underwater during a thunderstorm is not safe. Vagasky emphasizes that no outdoor location is safe during a thunderstorm, so the best course of action is to seek shelter indoors when a storm hits.
If someone is struck by lightning, it is important to call 911 and provide immediate first aid. Approximately 90% of lightning strike victims survive but require prompt medical attention. Lightning strikes about 37 million times a year in the United States, resulting in an average of 21 deaths. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the risks associated with thunderstorms and lightning strikes, as well as how to stay safe during severe weather conditions.
Thunderstorms are most likely to occur in the warmer months, with the majority of lightning strikes happening in June, July, and August. It is important for people to be aware of the risks associated with lightning and take precautions to stay safe during stormy weather by checking weather forecasts regularly and seeking shelter indoors when needed.
Lightning strikes between clouds or from clouds to the ground can cause significant damage including fires, injuries and fatalities due to its electrical charge in the cloud caused by collision of rain ice crystals hail in atmosphere generating this charge. So if you are outdoors when lightning strikes
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