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How Many People Are Hit by Lightning Each Year and How to Stay Safe

Lightning strikes are one of nature’s most powerful forces, capable of causing severe injury and even death. Understanding the risks associated with lightning and knowing how to protect yourself can save lives. In this article, we’ll explore how many people are hit by lightning annually and provide essential safety tips to keep you protected during storms.

How Many People Are Struck by Lightning Each Year?

According to the National Weather Service, approximately 20 to 30 people die each year in the United States due to lightning strikes. However, the number of people struck and injured is significantly higher. On average, around 300 people are struck by lightning annually, many of whom suffer serious injuries, including burns, neurological damage, and cardiac arrest.

Globally, the numbers are even more staggering. It’s estimated that lightning strikes the Earth about 8 million times per day, and thousands of people worldwide are injured or killed each year as a result. Countries in tropical and subtropical regions, such as India and Brazil, tend to experience a higher frequency of lightning-related fatalities due to their storm-prone climates.

How to Protect Yourself During a Lightning Storm

While lightning is unpredictable, there are several precautions you can take to minimize your risk of being struck. Here are key safety tips to follow:

1. Seek Shelter Immediately

  • The safest place to be during a thunderstorm is indoors. Seek shelter in a sturdy building or a hard-topped vehicle.
  • Avoid staying in open fields, under trees, or near tall objects that can act as lightning conductors.

2. Follow the 30-30 Rule

  • If you see lightning and hear thunder within 30 seconds, the storm is close enough to be dangerous. Seek shelter immediately.
  • Wait at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before going outside again.

3. Stay Away from Conductive Materials

  • Avoid using wired electrical appliances, such as landline phones and plugged-in electronics, during a storm.
  • Stay away from plumbing fixtures, including sinks, bathtubs, and showers, as lightning can travel through water pipes.

4. Avoid Open Areas and Water

  • If caught outside with no shelter, crouch down low on the balls of your feet with your head tucked and hands over your ears.
  • Stay away from lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water, as water is an excellent conductor of electricity.

5. Be Cautious in Group Settings

  • If you’re with a group of people in an open area, spread out to reduce the chance of multiple injuries from a single lightning strike.
  • Do not lie flat on the ground, as this increases the area lightning can affect.

What to Do If Someone Is Struck by Lightning

If someone is hit by lightning, immediate medical attention is crucial. Here’s what to do:

  • Call 911 immediately.
  • If the person is unresponsive, begin CPR if trained to do so.
  • Move the victim to a safer location if the area is still exposed to lightning danger.
  • Check for burns and other injuries and provide first aid as needed until medical professionals arrive.

Conclusion

Lightning is a formidable natural force, but with the right precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of being struck. By staying informed about weather conditions, seeking shelter promptly, and following safety guidelines, you can protect yourself and those around you during a thunderstorm. Stay safe and be prepared for nature’s unexpected electrical displays!