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Information from the Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program

Seasonal CRD Preparedness Tips July: Lightning Preparedness

Lightning is a powerful and unpredictable natural phenomenon that can strike with little warning, posing significant risks to life and property. Summer is the most likely time for lightning throughout the year, and understanding and implementing lightning safety measures is crucial to protect yourself and your loved ones. This tip sheet provides essential guidelines to help you stay safe from lightning, whether you're indoors or outdoors.

Tip #1: General Information

All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous

Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from any rainfall

Many lightning deaths occur before rain starts or after it ends

Don't be fooled by blue skies; if you hear thunder, lightning is a threat

Lightning often leaves victims with permanent disabilities

Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before going outside

Tip #2: Outdoor Lightning Preparedness

When lightning strikes, go indoors. Staying inside is the safest option

If caught outdoors, avoid open fields, hilltops, isolated trees, and tall objects. Spread out if in a group

Stay away from water and metal objects, as they conduct electricity well

If in a car, keep the windows closed. The outer metal shell provides protection, but do not lean on the car

If scuba diving, stay in the cabin of a boat or dive deep into the water during the storm

If caving, go deep inside and avoid metal, water, and touching both the ceiling and floor

Tip #3: Indoor Lightning Preparedness

Stay off corded phones, computers, and other electrical equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity

Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths, and faucets

Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches

Do not lie on concrete floors

Do not lean against concrete walls

Sources

https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning- tips#:~:text=Stay%20off%20corded%20phones%2C%20 computers,not%20lean%20against%20concrete%20 walls.

https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning

https://www.weather.gov/media/safety/Lightning-Brochure18.pdf

https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-outdoors

https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-cars

http://lightningsafetycouncil.org/

For more information contact:

Cameron Sellers

Community Resource Development - Disaster Educator cameron.sellers@kysu.edu