Lightning Safety During Winter Storms: Essential Guidelines

Winter storms can bring a mix of hazards, including lightning, which poses significant risks. Understanding how to protect yourself during these events is crucial.

What Are the Risks of Lightning During Winter Storms?

While winter storms are often associated with snow and ice, lightning can still occur, especially in the early stages of a storm. Lightning can strike any place on Earth, with about 6,000 strikes every minute, totaling more than 8 million strikes daily. (cdc.gov)

How Can I Stay Safe Indoors During a Winter Storm with Lightning?

• Avoid Water: Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm because lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing. (cdc.gov)

• Stay Away from Electrical Appliances: Avoid using anything connected to an electrical outlet, such as computers, laptops, game systems, washers, dryers, or stoves. (cdc.gov)

• Keep Away from Windows and Doors: Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches. (cdc.gov)

• Use Cordless Phones: Corded phones are not safe to use during a thunderstorm. Do not use them. However, it is safe to use cordless or cellular phones during a storm. (cdc.gov)

What Should I Do if I'm Outdoors During a Winter Storm with Lightning?

• Seek Shelter Immediately: If you hear thunder or see lightning, go indoors. Even if you see blue sky, you could still be in danger. (cdc.gov)

• Avoid Open Spaces and Tall Objects: Stay away from open spaces such as golf courses, parks, playgrounds, ponds, lakes, swimming pools, and beaches. Avoid open vehicles such as convertibles, motorcycles, and golf carts. (cdc.gov)

• Do Not Shelter Under Trees: Being underneath trees is the second leading cause for lightning deaths. (cdc.gov)

How Can Clime Help Me Stay Informed?

Clime offers real-time weather updates and alerts, ensuring you're always informed about current conditions and potential hazards. By staying updated, you can make timely decisions to protect yourself and your loved ones during winter storms with lightning.

FAQs

• Is it safe to use a cell phone during a thunderstorm?

Yes, it is safe to use cordless or cellular phones during a storm. However, do not use corded phones. (cdc.gov)

• Can lightning strike the same place twice?

Yes, lightning can strike the same place twice. In fact, lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly, especially a tall, pointy, isolated object. (cdc.gov)

• What should I do if I'm caught outside during a thunderstorm?

If you are caught outside during a thunderstorm, seek shelter immediately. Do not lie on the ground or shelter under a tree. If no shelter is nearby, crouch down in a ball-like position with your head tucked and hands over your ears and your feet closely together. (cdc.gov)

• Is it safe to take a shower or bath during a thunderstorm?

No, it is not safe to take a shower or bath during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through plumbing, so avoid all water during a thunderstorm. (cdc.gov)

• What is considered a safe shelter during a lightning storm?

A safe shelter is a fully enclosed vehicle or a shelter that has four walls and a roof. Examples of safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up. (cdc.gov)

By following these guidelines and staying informed through reliable sources like Clime, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with lightning during winter storms.