Stay Safe During a Thunderstorm: Where is the Best Place to Take Cover When Lightning Strikes?

When thunderstorms roll in, lightning safety is paramount. Being struck by lightning is a life-threatening event, and taking precautions to avoid a strike is of the utmost importance.

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According to information from the Office of the National Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention, on the evening of May 19, heavy thunderstorms with lightning occurred across the northern provinces of [Country], resulting in three fatalities due to lightning strikes.

In Thanh Hóa province, two victims succumbed to lightning strikes, including a woman in her 60s working in the fields and a 24-year-old woman commuting on the road connecting Thanh Hóa city to Triệu Sơn district. In Nam Định province, a man born in 1985 was struck by lightning and killed while moving through Giao Hải commune.

The authorities have offered condolences and support to the families of the victims, helping them to stabilize their lives.

Thunderstorms and lightning on the evening of May 19 claimed three lives. Illustrative image.

How to Protect Yourself from Lightning Strikes during Storms

Meteorological experts advise that while lightning is a random extreme weather event, there are no absolutely safe places to avoid it. However, taking proactive measures to find shelter and practice lightning safety during storms, especially during the rainy season, can significantly reduce the risk of being struck by lightning and prevent health-related injuries.

When a storm is approaching, indicated by dark clouds, gusty winds, and a drop in temperature, it is crucial to seek indoor shelter. Once indoors, maintain a safe distance from windows, doors, electrical appliances, and wet areas such as bathrooms, water tanks, and faucets. Unless necessary, refrain from using electronic devices, including mobile phones.

Prior to the storm, unplug electrical appliances. Stay away from telephone lines or electrical wires as they are connected to the external power grid and can conduct lightning strikes. Maintain a distance of at least one meter from these wires and electrical appliances.

Do not stand under trees during storms. Illustrative image.

If you are outdoors and unable to find shelter, stay away from tall trees, hilltops, and open areas. Discard any metallic objects you may be carrying. Maintain a safe distance from electrical poles or power lines, as these are also susceptible to lightning strikes or broken wires, posing significant dangers.

Regarding vehicles, it is safe to stay inside as long as you do not lean out and touch the metal body. However, open or uncovered metal vehicles, such as some boats and cars, can be dangerous.

First Aid for Lightning Strike Victims

If you encounter someone who has been struck by lightning, check their breathing. If they are unconscious and not breathing, immediately perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR):

– Place the victim on their back.

– Perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation: Cover the victim’s nose with your hand, take a deep breath, then seal their mouth with your mouth and blow. Release to allow the victim to breathe normally. Repeat this process approximately twice.

Steps to provide first aid to a lightning strike victim. Image: Internet.

– Perform external chest compressions: Locate the lower third of the breastbone. Place your hands on this spot and press continuously about 30 times at a rate of approximately 100 compressions per minute, pressing down about 3-5 cm.

– Alternate between blowing and chest compressions: two blows for every 30 compressions, until medical personnel arrive with essential equipment.

– Immobilize the victim’s neck and back if there is a suspected head injury or swelling and bruising in the neck region.

– After first aid, promptly transport the victim to the nearest medical facility.

According to Nguoiduatin Newspaper

Frequently asked questions

The safest place to be during a thunderstorm is indoors. If you are caught outside, try to find a substantial building to shelter in. Avoid wide-open spaces, hilltops, and isolated trees or other tall objects. If you are in a forest, stay away from the tallest trees and find a lower-lying area.

If you are caught outside during a thunderstorm and unable to find shelter, try to find a low-lying area, such as a ravine or valley. Avoid lying flat on the ground as this can make you more vulnerable to lightning strikes. Instead, crouch down with your feet together and your head tucked in. Do not seek shelter under tall objects, such as trees, as they can attract lightning.

In addition to seeking shelter and avoiding tall objects, there are a few other safety precautions you should take during a thunderstorm. Stay away from water, as lightning can travel through plumbing and wet surfaces. Do not touch electrical equipment or cords, and avoid using your phone unless it is an emergency. If you are driving, try to park your car in a safe area and stay inside until the storm passes.

If you are caught outdoors during a lightning storm, try to find an open vehicle with a metal roof, such as a car or truck, and stay inside until the storm passes. If you are in an open area, avoid being the tallest object by not standing under tall trees or other structures. Stay away from metal objects, such as fences or power lines, as lightning can travel through them.

If someone is struck by lightning, they may have burns, nerve damage, or cardiac arrest. Check their breathing, pulse, and pupil response. If necessary, begin CPR. Call for emergency medical help and keep the person still and warm until help arrives. Signs of a lightning strike include a loud thunderclap, a bright flash of light, and a crackling sound.
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Stay Safe During a Thunderstorm: Where is the Best Place to Take Cover When Lightning Strikes?

When thunderstorms roll in, lightning safety is paramount. Being struck by lightning is a life-threatening event, and taking precautions to avoid a strike is of the utmost importance.