How to Survive in Thunderstorm

The chance of someone being struck by lightning is 1:600,000.  Though the probability seems low, this does not necessarily mean that you want to take chances, especially during a massive thunderstorm that occasionally happens during summer.  When you find yourself in the middle of the overwhelming and devastating power of Mother Nature, being alert to the things that you need to do can save your life.  To minimize the probability of being hit by millions of vols, here's how to survive in thunderstorm.

 

How to Survive in Thunderstorm: Remain Inside Your Car If You Can't Make It Indoors

 

For those who cannot find their shelter indoors, their next best possible shelter would be an enclosed vehicle.  When there is a thunderstorm, your car remains one of the most secured and protected places to stay.  However, this is not due to the insulation made up of rubber.  It is because of the car's metal elements that serve as a conductor of the electricity which channels it to the ground.  If you get caught in a lightning storm while driving in the middle of the road, unbuckle the seatbelt, shut down your engine, and avoid touching any metal components of the car.

 

Avoid Using Electrical Gadgets, Equipment, and Cords

 

Lightning can travel long distances by using electrical wires, which increases the possibility of penetrating one's home.  To reduce the probability of an electric surge, start unplugging all your electric devices and equipment.  On the off chance that you still have corded phones, please refrain from using them during thunderstorms.  You will be surprised to know that the leading cause of lightning injury indoors in the US would be utilizing the landline.

 

Refrain From Taking a Shower

 

Like its ability to travel through your wiring system, it also can enter your house through your plumbing system.  So, if you do not want to shower in millions of electric volts, let the storm pass first before taking a shower. You should also avoid washing the dishes or your hand during a thunderstorm. Let the wrath of nature pass before you return to your usual activities.

 

Avoid Having a Contact with Concrete

 

You may instantly think that concrete is a poor conductor, and it will be impossible for you to get any injury by touching a concrete wall or floor during a lightning storm.  However, you also need to remember that concrete walls and floors are reinforced with steel that is a good conductor of electricity.  When a thunderstorm is raging, you need to avoid having contact with concretes.

 

 

The first thing you need to know about how to survive in thunderstorm is to get inside as fast as you can once you hear the first thunderclap.  Also, be a responsible citizen after the thunderstorm. If you saw fallen trees and powerlines, report them immediately. Hopefully, the survival tips provided above will allow you to stay safe and secure during a massive thunderstorm.