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Warning Signs of Lightning

Lightning is a natural occurrence. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), "Lightning is caused by the attraction between positive and negative charges in the atmosphere, resulting in the buildup and discharge of electrical energy...when the two charges connect, current surges through the jagged path, creating a visible lightning bolt." Since lightning is extremely dangerous, pay attention to the warning signs that point to the possibility of lightning strikes occurring.

  1. Flashes of Light

    • Flashes of light that suddenly appear in the sky, especially in a sky that has suddenly darkened with fast-moving clouds, indicate that lightning is imminent and indoor shelter should be sought out immediately. Once indoors, close windows and listen to a battery-powered device such as a radio, computer or television, for weather and safety information.

    Storm Warnings

    • Meteorologists read the signs and predict the weather. Keeping track of the weather online, by radio or television, especially when away from home or on water, provides warning signs that lightning may be a problem. Weather reports give the advance warning needed to find a safer location should a storm find you in the open or near a tall object that might draw a lightning charge. Warning signs that lightning might strike depends upon the location, whether you are near trees or near a place lightning has struck before.

    Clouds

    • Dark clouds that pile high in the sky and grow darker with each passing moment are a warning sign of impending wind, rain, hail and the likelihood of lightning.

    Thunder

    • Storms bring thunder. Thunder warns that lightning is active in the atmosphere. Lightning travels much faster than the thunder clap that follows a lightning strike. If you hear thunder, know that you may be in danger. According to NOAA, "While many lightning casualties happen at the beginning of an approaching storm, more than 50 percent of lightning deaths occur after the thunderstorm has passed." Warning signs of lightning include the volume and rate of the thunder claps. The louder and more often the thunder, the more danger lightning presents. Danger exists even if thunder appears a long way away. As long as you hear thunder, lightning poses a danger.

    In the Open

    • If you are outside and you feel the wind rise and the hair on your neck stand up, you are in danger. Hair rising is a warning sign of an eminent lightning strike. If possible, move away from tall and/or metal objects. Crouch with hands on knees and feet together, but do not lie flat. Move to an indoor location as soon as possible.

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