Courtesy
Courtesy of
of T.H.
T.H. March
March
There are many myths on what to do during thunderstorms and lighting, two popular sayings are that lightning
will never strike the same place twice or that it will always strike the tallest object. Both of these assertions are
false, as lighting will strike the best conductor on the ground, whether it has struck there before or not. In fact,
many of the things you may have heard about lightning may be false, so make sure you know what to do to
protect yourself in the event of thunderstorms and lightning.
Facts about Thunderstorms

They may occur singly, in clusters or in lines.

A single thunderstorm affecting one location
for an extended time can be more severe than
other storms.

Thunderstorms typically produce heavy rain for
a brief period, anywhere from 30 minutes to an
hour.

Warm, humid conditions are highly favourable
for thunderstorm development.
Facts about Lightning

Lightning’s unpredictability increases the risk
to individuals and property. Strikes often occur
outside of heavy rain and may happen as far as
12 kilometres away from any rainfall.

Most lightning deaths and injuries occur when
people are caught outdoors in the summer
months during the afternoon and evening.

Your chances of being struck by lightning are
estimated to be one in three million.

Lightning strike victims carry no electrical
charge and should be attended to
immediately.
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The content of this document is of general interest only and not intended to apply to specific circumstances. It does not purport to be a
comprehensive analysis of all matters relevant to its subject matter. It does not address all potential compliance issues with UK, EU or any
other regulations. The content should not, therefore, be regarded as constituting legal advice and not be relied upon as such. It should not
be used, adopted or modified without competent legal advice or legal opinion. In relation to any particular problem which they may have,
readers are advised to seek specific advice. Contains public sector information published by the Met Office and licensed under the Open
Government Licence v1.0.
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Met Office Severe Weather Warnings
The United Kingdom’s National Weather Service, the Met Office, provides up-to-date weather advisories and
warns the public of severe or hazardous weather through its National Severe Weather Warning Service.
Warnings are given a colour (Green, Yellow, Amber or Red) based on the combination of both the likelihood of
the severe weather event occurring and the impact the weather conditions may have. Make sure you check
your local weather forecast to find out whether the Met Office has released any warnings for your area. You
can also find the latest warnings at www.metoffice.gov.uk.
The Met Office provides the following examples of what to expect during thunderstorms and lightning strikes:
Very Low Threat (Green)
Low Threat (Yellow)
Medium Threat (Amber)
High Threat (Red)

The weather is not expected to have any
noticeable impact

When travelling, some extra care may be needed

There may be some disruption to outdoor events

Access the latest weather forecast for up-to-date
weather information

Expect some minor delays due to slower traffic

Outdoor events may be disrupted or cancelled

Take precautions where possible

Access the latest weather forecast

Be prepared for some disruption to normal daily
routines

Travel only if well prepared, and be prepared for
longer journey times

Take precautionary action and remain extra
vigilant

Follow orders and any advice given by authorities
under all circumstances

Access the latest weather forecast

Expect significant disruption to normal daily
routines

Avoid all non-essential journeys. If you must
make a journey, carry emergency food, clothing,
blankets, etc.
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If the Met Office issues a warning for thunderstorms and lightning in your area, make sure you are prepared.
Use the following tips and hints to help ensure your safety in a thunderstorm.
Before a Thunderstorm and Lightning
To prepare for a thunderstorm, you should do the following:

Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.

Unplug all non-essential appliances, such as computers and televisions, before the storm arrives. Lightning
can cause power surges.

Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe
thunderstorm.

Postpone all outdoor activities.

Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.

Seek shelter if possible by getting inside a home, building or motor vehicle. Although you may be injured if
lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside. When you hear thunder, you
are already within range of where the next ground flash may occur; lightning can strike as far as 12
kilometres away from the centre of a storm.

Close all windows and secure outside doors.
During Thunderstorms and Lightning
If thunderstorms and lightning are occurring in your area:

Use a battery-operated weather radio for updates from local authorities.

Avoid using the phone, as telephone lines can conduct electricity.

Avoid using taps and sinks, as metal pipes can conduct electricity.

Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.

If outside:

o
Get to land and find shelter immediately if you are in open water.
o
Find a low-lying place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects.

Avoid natural lightning rods such as tall, isolated trees in open areas.

Avoid hilltops, open fields, the beach and boats on the water.
o
Avoid contact with anything metal, such as tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf buggies, golf
clubs and bicycles.
o
If you find yourself in an exposed location, squat close to the ground with your hands on your knees
and your head tucked between them. Try to touch as little of the ground as possible. Do NOT lie down
on the ground.
o
If you feel your hair stand on end, drop to the squat position immediately.
If you are driving, try to exit the road and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers
until any heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside
the vehicle.
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After a Thunderstorm or Lightning Strike
If lightning strikes you or someone you know, call 999 for medical assistance as soon as possible. If you have
been properly trained in first aid, the following are things you should check when you attempt to help a victim
of lightning:

Breathing – If breathing has stopped, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

Heartbeat – If the heart has stopped, administer CPR.

Pulse – If the victim has a pulse and is breathing, look for other possible injuries. Check for burns where
the lightning entered and left the body. Be alert for nervous system damage, broken bones and loss of
hearing and eyesight.
After the storm passes, remember the following:

Never drive through a flooded roadway. Water can damage your vehicle and poses a drowning hazard.

Listen to a battery-operated radio for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some
parts of the community may be blocked.

Stay away from downed power lines or broken cables.
Stay safe when severe weather strikes by being prepared and checking weather forecasts and warnings.
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