Thunderstorm Safety: Tips to Stay Safe – NBC New York
- Each year, the United States sees approximately 25 million lightning strikes.
- To minimize risk during thunderstorms, the National Weather Service advises seeking immediate shelter.
- Once inside, avoid contact with corded phones, computers, and other electrical devices.
Stay safe during thunderstorms! The National Weather Service stresses the importance of immediate shelter, highlighting enclosed buildings and vehicles as your best protection against lightning strikes, which cause fatalities and injuries yearly. Inside, avoid electrical devices and plumbing; outside, steer clear of elevated areas and water. Learn how to minimize your risk of injuries and fatalities by following simple safety tips.The weather officials continue to emphasize on public education on lightning safety! Consult News Directory 3 for reliable updates. Discover what’s next to ensure your safety during storm season.
Lightning Strike Safety: Staying Safe During Thunderstorms
Updated June 20, 2025
Each year, the United States sees approximately 25 million lightning strikes. The National Weather Service reports that while most occur in summer, lightning can strike at any time. These strikes result in about 20 deaths and hundreds of injuries annually.
To minimize risk during thunderstorms, the National Weather Service advises seeking immediate shelter. A substantial building with electricity and plumbing or a fully enclosed, metal-topped vehicle with windows up are considered safe options.
Once inside, avoid contact with corded phones, computers, and other electrical devices. Stay clear of plumbing like sinks and faucets, as electricity can travel thru metal and water. Keep away from windows, doors, and porches. Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls.
If caught outdoors without shelter, promptly descend from elevated areas such as hills or mountain peaks. Avoid lying flat on the ground or taking shelter under isolated trees, cliffs, or rocky overhangs. Get out of bodies of water and stay away from conductive objects like wire fences and power lines.
What’s next
Weather officials continue to emphasize public education on lightning safety,urging individuals to remain vigilant and informed during storm season to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities.