If you’ve ever been caught in a thunderstorm, you’ve probably wondered about your chances of being struck by lightning. After all, it’s a rare occurrence, but it does happen. So, what are the odds?
The Numbers
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the average number of lightning strikes in the United States each year is about 25 million. That’s a lot of lightning! However, the odds of being struck by lightning are actually quite low.
The NWS estimates that the chances of being struck by lightning in any given year are about 1 in 500,000. That means that you’re more likely to win the lottery than you are to be struck by lightning.
However, there are some factors that can increase your risk of being struck by lightning, such as:
- Being outdoors during a thunderstorm
- Being in a tall, isolated structure
- Being near water
- Being in a metal boat
- Flying a kite or balloon
If you’re concerned about being struck by lightning, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:
- Staying indoors during thunderstorms
- Seeking shelter in a sturdy building or vehicle
- Avoiding tall, isolated structures
- Staying away from water
- Not flying kites or balloons
- Not touching metal objects
Lightning Safety
If you’re caught in a thunderstorm, there are some important safety precautions you should take to reduce your risk of being struck by lightning:
- Seek shelter immediately. The safest place to be during a thunderstorm is inside a sturdy building or vehicle. If you’re not able to get indoors, seek shelter in a low-lying area away from tall trees and other potential hazards.
- Stay away from water. Water conducts electricity, so it’s important to stay away from water during a thunderstorm. Do not swim, wade, or boat in water.
- Do not touch metal objects. Metal objects conduct electricity, so it’s important to avoid touching them during a thunderstorm. This includes metal fences, railings, and even your own jewelry.
- If you’re struck by lightning, seek medical attention immediately. Lightning strikes can cause serious injuries, so it’s important to seek medical attention immediately if you’re struck.
Conclusion
The chances of being struck by lightning are low, but it’s still important to be aware of the risks and take precautions to stay safe during thunderstorms. By following these safety tips, you can reduce your risk of being struck by lightning and enjoy the outdoors safely.
Table 1: Lightning Fatalities in the United States
| Year | Fatalities |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 19 |
| 2018 | 22 |
| 2017 | 28 |
| 2016 | 24 |
| 2015 | 27 |
Table 2: Lightning Injuries in the United States
| Year | Injuries |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 210 |
| 2018 | 230 |
| 2017 | 260 |
| 2016 | 240 |
| 2015 | 270 |
Table 3: Factors that Increase the Risk of Being Struck by Lightning
| Factor | Risk |
|---|---|
| Being outdoors during a thunderstorm | High |
| Being in a tall, isolated structure | High |
| Being near water | High |
| Being in a metal boat | High |
| Flying a kite or balloon | High |
Table 4: Lightning Safety Tips
| Tip | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Seek shelter indoors | To protect yourself from lightning |
| Stay away from water | Water conducts electricity |
| Do not touch metal objects | Metal objects conduct electricity |
| If you’re struck by lightning, seek medical attention immediately | Lightning strikes can cause serious injuries |
