Be Safe During Lightning

Fri, 07/19/2024 - 8:30am — Diane Dyer

According to The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), in the last ten years (2013-2023), five lightning fatalities have been reported in Kentucky, along with 25 injuries. One of those fatalities occurred just last year, when a 39-year old male was struck and killed by lightning just south of Sherburne in Bath County while bailing hay. Also in 2023, two boys sustained injuries from a lightning strike on a golf course in Lexington.

During the summer months, thunderstorms are much more common across the Commonwealth and this makes lightning awareness and preparedness much more important. There are two catchy phrases that can help you remember the most important message in lightning safety: “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!” and “See A Flash, Dash Inside!” You do not want to be outside during a thunderstorm. Rather, you want to be inside in a sturdy building or hard-topped vehicle. Stay in your safe place until 30 minutes after the storm has passed.

Here are additional tips if you find yourself caught in the outdoors when a thunderstorm is near and you can’t immediately seek shelter:

-Avoid open fields, the top of a hill or ridge top.

-Stay away from tall objects such as tall trees.

-If you are in a group, spread out to avoid the electric current traveling between group members.

-If camping, set up camp in a valley or other low area. Remember that a tent does not provide protection from lightning.

-Avoid water, wet items and metal items. Water and metal are good conductors of electricity.

Ultimately, seeking shelter is the best course of action as the safest place to be is inside!

For more information contact the Butler County Extension Office of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service at 102 Parkway Lane, Morgantown or by calling 270-526-3767. You can also visit:

https://www.weather.gov/wrn/summer-lightning-sm

https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-safety

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