Arizona is world renowned for its spectacular lightning displays. It is a time to think about safety. According to the National Weather Service, 79% of all lightning deaths in the last ten years have been in the summer months, though lightning can occur with any storm (even a snowstorm!). Did you know it takes thunder 5 seconds to travel one mile, and usually cannot be heard from 15 miles away? Remember, When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors! Remain indoors for at least 30 minutes past the last observed lightning or sound of thunder and take these precautions:
Unplug electronics. Power surge strips will help with a grid’s power fluctuation but will not stop the damage that will done to a home if the lightning strike is nearby or direct. It may be a little effort to unplug the refrigerator, computer, tv, and the like, but that is easier than losing all your appliances in a flash (and all the food that needs to stay cold to not spoil!) Do not use a corded phone, but an unplugged cell phone is fine.
Do not use water. Avoid showering, bathing, washing dishes or hands as metal and water can conduct electricity. Avoid using the toilet too, for a home was struck and the toilet exploded! If you suspect your home had a powerful surge of electricity, have your pipes checked for leaks often caused where metal pipes end and PVC begins.
Stay away from windows and exterior doors. It can be tempting to get close to watch the lightning show, but windows and doors have metal frames that can shatter the glass. Sit back a good distance away from the window to enjoy the marvel of lightning.
Stay away from concrete floors or walls. Concrete has metal rods in it that can be a conductor of electricity. Avoid the basement, or standing on concrete in the garage or carport.
If you are outside and cannot get indoors, remember that lightning will primarily be attracted to height and an object in isolation. Do NOT seek shelter under a lone tree or pavilion! Avoid concrete. If you are with others seek to go to the lowest place and separate at least 15 feet from each other so if one is hit with an electrical current, the other(s) can render first aid, typically CPR (people do not retain an electrical charge and are safe to touch). If you are alone and cannot get to an enclosed building or vehicle with a metal roof with the windows closed, and you feel static electricity in the air, crouch down with feet close together and cover your ears. Do not lay on the ground. Avoid contact with metal or water for they conduct electricity.
Always check the weather before activities such as golf, boating, ball games, hiking, biking, skiing…. Lightning can make ground contact up to 10 miles away from the storm, so you can be standing under blue skies and still be at risk.
Out of the brightness of His presence bolts of lightning blazed forth. The Lord thundered from heaven; the voice of the Most High resounded. 2 Samuel 22: 13-14
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