Precautions during Thunderstorms
You can best protect yourself by understanding the nature of lightning and taking it into account.
Thunderstorms can occur all year round, but are usually weather we associate with the summer season. At the same time, this is the time of year when we spend the most time outdoors and are therefore more exposed to danger during thunderstorms.
You can best protect yourself by understanding the nature of lightning and taking it into account.
The nature of lightning
Lightning is electricity that follows the most efficient path to the ground. This can be directly, through a tree, or through a person standing in the open.
It is difficult to predict which path the lightning will choose, so you should follow some simple guidelines to stay as safe as possible.
Are you indoors?
It is very safe to be indoors. Close doors and windows and stay away from the walls. Avoid touching radiators and other large metal objects.
It is safe to talk on a mobile phone during a thunderstorm. You can also work on a computer in battery mode—it must not be connected to a charger or plugged into a wall outlet.
Are you outdoors?
If there is only a short time (5 seconds) between seeing the lightning and hearing the thunder, the storm is right overhead, and you do not have time to seek shelter indoors.
In a car
A car is a very safe place to be. Close the windows and sunroof, and avoid touching the sides of the vehicle.
On a bicycle
Trees
You must never seek shelter under a tree. Lightning can easily spread from the tree to you in order to reach the ground.
Also avoid standing under other tall structures such as power poles, flagpoles, and similar objects.
In an open area
A person standing in an open field provides lightning with an efficient path to the ground.
Therefore, you should make yourself as small as possible and minimize contact with the ground. Kneel down and keep your feet close together. Do not sit or lie down on the ground. Lower your head and preferably cover your ears with your hands.
Forget about using an umbrella during a thunderstorm.
Tents
A tent provides lightning with an easy path to the ground. Therefore, you should not stay in a tent or close to a tent during a thunderstorm.
Water
Lightning often strikes water. Therefore, it is strongly advised not to be on or near water during a thunderstorm.
Avoid boating and swimming. You should also refrain from fishing.