Thunder is caused by lightning. How? When a lightning bolt travels from the cloud to the ground it actually opens up a little hole in the air, called a channel. After the light disappears the air collapses back in and creates a soundwave that we hear as thunder.
A lightning strike is almost five times hotter than the surface of the sun so you can image the damage it does once it hits surface.
Lightning’s unpredictability increases the risk to individuals and property. Before thunderstorms and lightning, according to US Department of Homeland Security, people should take heed of these few steps:
• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide no protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.
During thunderstorm and lightning:
• Use your battery-operated weather radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones and devices including those plugged into electricity for recharging. Cordless and wireless phones not connected to wall outlets are OK to use.
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off airconditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
• Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.
• Avoid natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.
• Avoid hilltops, open fields, the beach or a boat on the water.
• Take shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
• Avoid contact with anything metal-tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.
• If you are driving, try to safely leave the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.
