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Lightning

Lightning is hotter than the surface of the sun and can reach temperatures around 50,000 degrees. Although most lightning occurs during the summer, people can be struck at any time of year.

When Lightning Strikes

  • Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through plumbing.
  • Avoid using electronic equipment of all types. Lightning can travel through electrical systems and radio and television reception systems.
  • Avoid concrete floors and walls. Do not lie on concrete floors during a thunderstorm. Also, avoid leaning on concrete walls. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.
  • After you see lightning, start counting to 30. If you hear thunder before you reach 30, go indoors. Suspend activities for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.

outside precautions

  • Avoid high grounds such as a hill or tower.
  • Get out and away from ponds, lakes and other bodies of water
  • Avoid laying flat on the ground.
  • Avoid sheltering under an isolated tree.
  • Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (barbed wire fences, power lines, windmills, etc.)

For more information, refer to the National Weather Service at weather.gov.