What to Do During a Severe Thunderstorm Inside and Outside the Home

What to Do During a Storm

Immediate Shelter Saves Lives

Outside Is Never Safe

National Lightning Safety Awareness Week is observed from June 23 to 29, an initiative that seeks to remind people that this phenomenon can be deadly at any time of year.

Although it does not usually cause scenes of massive destruction like tornadoes or hurricanes, lightning strikes cause an average of 23 deaths each year in the United States, according to data from the past 10 years.

Only floods and tornadoes surpass lightning in the number of storm-related victims, showing that the risk is greater than many people imagine.

Each year, approximately 25 million lightning strikes are recorded in the country, along with more than 500 reported injuries, many of them with long-term physical and mental consequences.

What to Do During a Storm If You Are Inside the Home

What to Do During a Storm-Photo: Shutterstock

The most important rule is clear: if you hear thunder, you are close enough for lightning to strike you.

At the first sign of a thunderstorm, you should seek shelter in a solid building or in a hard-topped vehicle with the windows closed.

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Once indoors, it is essential to avoid using devices connected to the electrical grid or any system that involves contact with pipes or metal installations.

It is also recommended to remain indoors until the storm has completely moved away and thunder is no longer heard, since lightning can strike even far from the main storm core.

Outdoor Risks and Common Mistakes

No outdoor space is safe during a thunderstorm, so planning activities based on the weather forecast is key to reducing risks.

If there is no immediate access to a solid shelter, avoiding certain behaviors can make a difference, although it does not completely eliminate danger.

Taking shelter under tall, isolated trees or in partially open structures increases the likelihood of being struck by lightning.

Limiting outdoor activities when storms are forecast and ensuring constant access to a fully enclosed space are basic protection measures.

What to Do If Someone Is Struck

If someone is struck by lightning, call 911 immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

The most common injuries include cardiac arrest, arrhythmias, burns, and nervous system damage, although with rapid care many victims survive.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation may be necessary in some cases, and providing assistance does not pose any risk to the person helping.

Authorities recommend staying informed through official sources and educational resources to strengthen a culture of prevention against one of nature’s most unpredictable phenomena, according to the National Weather Service.