Lightning strikes and thunderstorms are some of the most terrifying weather phenomena. Knowing what to do in these situations can help keep you safe and healthy!

In this blog, we’ll talk about some of the safest places to be during a lightning storm, as well as some of the most dangerous places to be if you’re caught in one unexpectedly. Here are a few of the safest places to be during a lightning storm.

Inside a car

A car is one of the safest places you can be during a lightning storm because the lightning will travel around the surface of the vehicle and then go to ground. If you are in a car, make sure that you are not near any tall buildings or trees which could serve as conductors for lightning.

But you need to make sure you turn off the engine and don’t touch any metal parts. Also, avoid using your cell phone as much as possible because it can act as an antenna for electricity.

Inside, away from windows and doors

Inside is typically the safest place during a lightning storm. Most lightning strikes occur outside, so you’ll be safe inside your home or office. However, if you’re inside and you see blue-white flashes coming from windows or doors, that’s an indication that lightning is nearby. Stay away from your windows and doors to minimize your risk of getting hit by lightning.

Inside an enclosed structure with plumbing & wiring

In a thunderstorm, one of the best places to be is inside a large enclosed structure with plumbing and electrical wiring. The most common ones are shopping complexes, schools, offices, and homes. This is because the wiring and plumbing of a building will conduct electricity more efficiently than a human body if lightning strikes. However, make sure to stay away from wiring, electrical appliances and plumbing fixtures.

Which Places Should be Avoided During a Lightning Storm?

If you’re caught out in the open and there are no cars or other objects around to hide under, it’s important to know the best places to avoid being struck by lightning.

In Water

A lightning strike is more likely to hit the water than anywhere else. If you’re near the coast, don’t go in the water. If you’re on a boat or ship, stay off deck and away from metal objects like antennas or railings. You should also avoid natural bodies of water like lakes and rivers.

Near a tree

Being near trees during a lightning storm is one of the worst places to be. Trees act as natural lightning rods and attract electricity. The electricity can travel through the tree, down into the ground, and up again through your feet. In some cases people have been killed by lightning while standing near trees or touching metal objects that have been grounded by contact with wet tree leaves.

On Open Ground

Open ground is one of the worst places to be during a lightning storm. If you do find yourself out in the open, try to get into a low-lying area and avoid trees, tall buildings, or other tall objects that could serve as an antenna for lightning. In this scenario, it’s better to be in the center of the field than off on the edges.

Conclusion

A lightning strike can hit anywhere at any time. This is why it is important to be prepared for a lightning storm; you never know when the next one will strike near you. Besides, it is highly recommended to protect your building by installing a lightning protection system.