Lightning and its Dangers

Lightning occurs as a spark to equalize positive and negative electrical charges in a thunderstorm. Experiments have shown that when water droplets begin to freeze into ice crystals or ice pellets, positively-charged ions are concentrated in the coldest tops of a thunderstorm. Negatively-charged ions end to be concentrated lower in the warmer parts of the storm. Because like-charges repel, the lower negatively-charged part of the storm repels the negatively-charged atmospheric particles near and on the earth. As the earth acquires a positive-charge, a difference builds up between the earth and the cloud-base. Eventually, lightning discharges the difference between the two. As the heat of the lightning causes air molecules in its path to expand and explode, the noise produces the sound we call thunder.

We don’t think of lightning as a major killer because it usually picks off one or two victims at a time. But lightning kills hundreds of people worldwide and usually about 3-dozen victims in Texas alone each year.

Imagine if you and some friends were sitting on a fence rail or leaning against a fence at a park when lightning struck. You would wind up like those cows!

It's common sense but worth repeating. When storms are in the area, lightning is also nearby. If you are in the open or on the water, find a place of shelter as quickly as possible. Don't wait for the storm to pass over. It may pass over...right over you! If you are still out in the open, stay away from trees and metal structures. Drop down and crouch into a ball, presenting the smallest, lowest possible target.

If a friend is struck by lightning, don't wait to administer first aid or to begin resuscitation. Lightning is extremely random so don't think it can't happen to you.

The bottom-line is, if you can hear thunder, you’re within range of a lightning strike. Separate lightning myths from the facts and you’re more likely to survive.