IN A FLASH...

Whenever we think of thunderstorms, we usually think of strong winds and hail. Lightning is sometimes an afterthought, but it's one of the most dangerous parts of any storm. Each year, hundreds of people are injured by lightning strikes. Ironically, many of these injuries can easily been prevented.

By definition, every thunderstorm contains lightning. A single lightning strike can reach a length of 5 miles and generate 100 million volts of electricity. Temperatures with the bolt can reach an amazing 50,000 F. In fact, it's the sudden heating of the atmosphere that creates the loud "boom" we call thunder.
Obviously, the easiest way to avoid lightning related injury is to move indoors whenever a storm threatens. If you hear thunder, assume that you are close enough to the storm to be hit by lightning. On rare occasion, lightning bolts can travel horizontally for miles away from parent storm before striking ground. These "bolts from the blue" can injure (or even kill) unsuspecting victims. So anytime the clouds on the horizon appear to be darkening or lowering, it's best to head indoors as a precaution.

There are still things to keep in mind once you are safely inside. Remember, lightning can move along any conducting surface. Avoid contact with plumbing or pipes (in other words, no bathing during a thunderstorm). Also, stay off the phone until the storm passes. Avoid contact with electrical devices such as corded radios or TV's. It's also best to stay clear of windows until when lightning occurs.

With the arrival of summer comes our busiest lightning season in southeastern NC, but thunderstorms can develop any month of the year. Just remember- a little common sense can keep you safe whenever a storm strikes.