June 24-30, 2018
Lightning is one of the most underrated severe weather hazards, yet ranks as one of the top weather killers in the United States.
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Lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times a year.
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Lightning kills an average of 47 people in the United States each year, and hundreds more are severely injured.
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Each year, lightning causes about:
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25,000 total fires
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4,400 home structure fires
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1,800 non-home structure fires
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Lightning Safety
- There is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are in the area. If you hear thunder, you are likely within striking distance of the storm. Just remember, When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors.
- When you hear thunder, immediately move to safe shelter: a substantial building with electricity or plumbing or an enclosed, metal-topped vehicle with windows up.
- Stay in safe shelter at least 30 minutes after you hear the last sound of thunder.
Indoor Lightning Safety
- 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, and do not lean against concrete walls.
Last Resort Outdoor Risk Reduction Tips
If you are caught outside with no safe shelter anywhere nearby the following actions may reduce your risk:
- Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges or peaks
- Never lie flat on the ground
- Never shelter under an isolated tree
- Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter
- Immediately get out and away from ponds, lakes and other bodies of water
- Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (barbed wire fences, power lines, windmills, etc.)
For more information visit: https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning
Source: https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning