March 28, 2024

When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!

Posted for Commissioner President Jack Russell
Leading Edgethunder roars

Lightning kills more than 50 people in the US annually and injures hundreds more.

About 10 percent of people struck by lightning are killed. Ninety percent survive, many to suffer devastating life-long injuries.

Economic losses from lightning top $5 billion each year across the country, damage resulting from fires and other property destruction.

It is easy to avoid lightning deaths and injuries. Go indoors. Thunder is the warning signal, go indoors as soon as you hear it. There are no outdoor places safe from thunderstorms.

If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike. Immediately seek shelter in a substantial building or a vehicle with a metal top and sides. Remain sheltered for 30 minutes after you last hear thunder.

If  caught outside, don’t stay out in the open or near water. Never stand beneath a tall, isolated tree. If someone near you is struck by lightning and unresponsive or not breathing, call 9-1-1 immediately and administer CPR. Learn more at www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov.

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