Thunderstorm and lightning events are generated by atmospheric imbalance and turbulence due to the combination of the following conditions: unstable warm air rising rapidly into the atmosphere; sufficient moisture to form clouds and rain; and upward lift of air currents caused by colliding cold and warm weather fronts, sea breezes, or mountains.
Lighting is generated by the buildup of charged ions in a thundercloud, and the discharge of a lightning bolt interacts with the best conducting object or surface on the ground. The air channel of a lightning strike reaches temperatures higher than 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The rapid heating and cooling of the air near the channel causes a shock wave, which produces thunder.
Lightning damage can result in electrocution of humans and animals; vaporization of materials along the path of the strike; fire caused by the high temperature produced by the strike, and a sudden power surge that can damage electrical and electronic equipment. Millions of dollars of direct and indirect damages result from lightning strikes on electric utility substations and distribution lines. While property damage is the major hazard associated with lightning, it should be noted that lightning strikes kill nearly 100 people each year in the United States.
What to do to protect yourself and your home from lightning strikes?
Purchase an indoor personal notification system. These systems will alert you to any hazardous conditions that may exist.
If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Seek shelter immediately.
Move to a sturdy building and stay away from windows. Do not take shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees, or in convertible automobiles.
If a sturdy shelter is not available, get inside a hard top vehicle and keep the windows up. Be aware, though, since vehicles offer poor protection from other severe weather hazards such as hail, downburst winds, and tornadoes.
Get out of boats and away from water.
Unplug appliances not necessary for obtaining hazards information. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Use phones only in an emergency.
Do not take a bath or shower. Water and pipes can conduct electricity.
If you are caught outdoors and there is no shelter nearby
Find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles. Make sure the place you pick is not subject to flooding.
If you are in the woods, take shelter under the shorter trees.
If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stand on end, squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Make yourself the smallest target possible, and minimize your contact with the ground.
Be conscious of other severe weather hazards (flooding, hail, tornadoes, etc.)
