"Lightning kills, even in Washington state."
Our state may not get many thunderstorms in comparison with
states east of the Rockies, but we do get our share.
For instance, we had three straight days of
thunderstorms in western Washington, from May 15-17, 2003. A
woman was struck and injured by lightning in the Nisqually
valley during that event.Since we do
not get many thunderstorms in our area, many people are not
aware of what lightning can do, and what precautions can and
should be taken during thunderstorms. See the National
Weather Service lightning
safety web site for more information.
In addition, see these links for additional
information.
Outdoor Lightning Safety -
http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/outdoors.htm
Indoor Lightning Safety -
http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/indoors.htm
Lightning Myths -
http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/myths.htm
Lightning Science -
http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/science.htm
Medical Aspects of Lightning -
http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/medical.htm
Washington state averages from lightning:
- one fatality every two years -
several injuries each year
And remember, lightning frequently starts
wildfires in the state as well.
Bottom line - if you can hear thunder, you
are close enough to be struck by the next lightning bolt. If a
thunderstorm approaches, seek shelter in a building, not under
a tree. Have a safe summer season!
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