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Severe thunderstorms without warning are common as seasons shift from Summer to Autumn. While heavy rain, strong winds and hail can all cause damage, lightning remains one of the most dangerous and unpredictable elements of a storm. Read on to learn more about lightning and safety, and ways to ensure safety during a severe thunderstorm.

Why is Lightning Dangerous?

Lightning is a powerful electrical discharge that occurs when imbalances build up between storm clouds and the ground. When that energy is released, it travels at extremely high speeds and temperatures, capable of causing severe harm within seconds. Since it can strike several kilometres away from a storm, it can target you even if you aren’t directly under storm clouds.

Lightning is mostly dangerous because it can:

• Strike people directly.
• Travel through electrical wiring and plumbing.
• Cause fires in homes and buildings.
• Damage appliances and electronic devices.
• Trigger power outages and infrastructure failures.

Recognising When a Storm is Becoming Dangerous

Thunderstorms often build gradually, but conditions can change rapidly and when you least expect it. Recognising early warning signs allows you to take action before the storm reaches its peak. A useful rule of thumb is that if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

What to Prepare Before a Thunderstorm Hits

Preparation plays a significant role in reducing the risk of being struck by lightning during a thunderstorm. When you are aware that a storm is approaching, taking early precautions can make a significant difference. Most importantly, it means you are not forced to make rushed decisions once the storm begins.

Before the storm arrives, here are some ways to help you stay prepared:

• Unplug sensitive electronics to protect against power surges.
• Secure outdoor furniture and any loose items that could pose a hazard.
• Ensure mobile devices are charged in case of power outages.
• Identify a safe indoor space away from windows.
• Avoid planning outdoor activities during storm-prone periods.

Where to Take Shelter Safely

When lightning is present, your location can determine your level of safety. Research suggests that the safest place to be is inside a well-constructed building with wiring and plumbing or a fully enclosed vehicle with metal framing. If you can’t find proper shelter, you should consider seeking the lowest ground possible and minimise your contact with the surface as a last resort to reduce risk.

However, if you cannot find these recommended shelters, it’s important to try your best to avoid the following locations:

• Open fields or elevated areas.
• Under isolated trees.
• Near metal fences or poles.
• Open structures such as gazebos or shelters.
• Bodies of water, including pools and dams.

What to do During a Lightning Storm Indoors

It’s important to note that being indoors does not eliminate all risk. This is because lightning can still travel through electrical systems, plumbing and even walls. However, there are precautions to consider that can reduce the risk of injury from potential electrical surges or indirect lightning strikes.

These are some safety measures to consider when you are indoors during a storm:

• Avoid using electrical appliances.
• Stay away from plugged-in devices.
• Do not use corded phones.
• Avoid contact with taps, sinks and plumbing.
• Stay away from windows and doors.

Staying Safe During a Storm Outdoors

If you are caught outside when a thunderstorm begins, immediate action is required. The goal is to reduce your exposure and avoid becoming the highest point in the area without lying flat on the ground and increasing your exposure to ground currents. Important safety steps when you are outdoors can include:

• Moving to a safer location immediately.
• Avoiding standing alone in open spaces.
• Staying away from tall objects, such as trees or poles.
• Keeping your distance from metal objects and water.
• Crouching low if no shelter is available, with minimal contact with the ground.

Lightning and Road Safety

Thunderstorms often create hazardous driving conditions. For instance, reduced visibility, slippery roads and sudden flooding can increase the risk of accidents. While your car can protect you from lightning because of its metal structure, it’s still important to avoid touching any metal surfaces inside it.

Key considerations when you are driving during a storm include:

• Reducing the speed and increasing the following distance.
• Using the headlights to improve visibility.
• Avoiding flooded roads or low-lying areas.
• Staying inside your vehicle if lightning is active.

Protecting Your Home and Property

Lightning can cause significant damage to homes, especially through power surges and fires. Taking preventative measures can reduce the impact. You should consider a few measures, such as installing surge protectors, ensuring proper grounding of electrical systems, and keeping flammable materials away from sources that are easily flammable.

What to Watch for After the Storm

Most people don’t realise that risks may still be present even after a storm has passed. You might be exposed to flooded areas, damaged infrastructure, unstable structures or fallen trees, which increase the risk of hazards. Using the FREE-to-use iER App can ensure fast reporting to help improve emergency service response and safety in affected areas.

Lightning is dangerous and can cause severe injuries and widespread damage within a matter of seconds. However, proper knowledge and preparation can help reduce most of the risks associated with thunderstorms. Recognising the warning signs and using the multi-award-winning iER App to report hazards and request emergency response teams can make a significant difference.