Lightning
Lightning-Lightning occurs in all thunderstorms. It causes an average of 58 fatalities a year in the United States. Last year, lightning resulted in over 30 fatalities in the United States. One person was killed in Alabama last year due to lightning. This fatality was an Atmore woman who was struck while taking out the trash.
Preparing for a Lightning
- Be aware of weather conditions.
- If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.
- Learn CPR. People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge, and will need medical attention. You may be their best hope for survival. Call the Etowah County Red Cross at 547-8667 to find out more about CPR classes.
During a Lightning Storm
- Find shelter inside a sturdy building or car. Keep windows closed.
- Avoid electrical appliances and plumbing. Cordless phones and wireless phones are ok to use; wired phones are NOT.
- Stay away from windows.
- If caught outside, get to an open area away from trees and metal objects such as poles.
- 30/30 rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
Truths and Myths
Myth: If it is not raining, there is no danger from lightning.
Truth: Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall
Myth: The rubber soles of shoes or tires on a car will protect you from being struck by lightning.
Truth: Rubber-soled shoes and tires provide NO protection from lightning. The steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal. Although you may be injured if lightning strikes a car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
Myth: “Heat lightning” occurs after very hot summer days.
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