Photo by Johannes Plenio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/lightning-during-nighttime-1118869/
All thunderstorms are dangerous. Every thunderstorm produces lightning. Lightning is one of the top three storm-related killers in the United States.
Facts About Thunderstorms
They may occur individually, in clusters, or in lines.
Some of the most severe occur when a single thunderstorm affects one location for an extended time.
Thunderstorms typically produce heavy rain for a brief period, anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Warm, humid conditions are highly favorable for thunderstorm development.
About 10 percent of thunderstorms are classified as severe—one that produces hail at least three-quarters of an inch in diameter, has winds of 58 miles per hour or higher, or produces a tornado.
Facts About Lightning
Lightning’s unpredictability increases the risk to individuals and property.
Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.
“Heat lightning” is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far away for thunder to be heard. However, the storm may be moving in your direction!
Most lightning deaths and injuries occur when people are caught outdoors in the summer months during the afternoon and evening.
Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be attended to immediately.
Specific information on what to do Before, During and After a Thunderstorm and Lightning Strike can be found at: www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning.