Massachusetts Lightning Safety Awareness Week

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

This year, lightning safety awareness week falls on June 22nd-26th. 

While we all love to spend time outdoors during the summer months in New England, did you know that the summertime is the peak season for lightning??

According to the National Weather Service:

• 25 million lightning strikes occur in the US each year 
• In the past 30 years, the US has an average of 47 fatalities per year caused by lightning 
• Lightning has injured about 12,000 people
• It is the cause of around 25,000 fires per year

Lightning can strike up to 25 miles away from the actual storm! This means you could be in danger of a strike even if you aren't in an area where the storm is over. If you can hear thunder, you are in 'striking distance'. According to the National Weather Service, "When thunder roars, go indoors" and stay inside until 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder. 

What if I am outdoors before/during/after a storm??

If you are planning on being outdoors this summer, be sure you update yourself, friends, and family (whoever you're outdoors with) with the latest weather forecast before heading out on your hike, walk, bike ride... The NWS recommends taking a portable NOAA Weather Radio or AM/FM radio with you on your trip to keep up to date. 

When you arrive at your destination, be sure to look for somewhere you can find shelter in the case of a storm, and how long it would take you to get to this shelter. Keep an eye on the sky for any changing conditions. If you hear thunder or see lightning or dark clouds, immediately get to your place of shelter. 

• If there is no actual building/shelter, a vehicle will be your next best option. 

During a storm 

Avoid using any landline phones. This is one of the leading causes of injuries. You can use your cellphones, but not while they're on the charger 

Don't touch any electrical equipment. Using a TV, computer, appliance, could put you more at risk for a lightning strike. 

Water and plumbing appliances are great conductors for electricity. Avoid washing dishes or showering during a thunderstorm. 

If you're inside a vehicle, be sure your windows are up! 

 For more information on lightning, lightning safety, and statistics, visit the National Weather Service online!!