When Lightning Strikes
You’re lying on the beach. It’s a hot and hazy summer day. Then suddenly you hear thunder in the distance. Get moving! The lightning that caused that thunder can kill.
Lightning occurs with ALL thunderstorms. In Florida, thunderstorms are most likely to happen in the spring and summer months and during the afternoon but they can occur year round at all hours. Strong winds are also a danger associated with some storms.
Lightning in marine areas is particularly dangerous. Boaters, fishermen, and beachgoers, as well as people on piers, should be alert. Lightning can occur when the sky is blue and there is no rain in sight. Frequently, strikes occur just prior to the onset of a thunderstorm.
Lifeguards watch for signs of approaching storms and are alerted of the latest radar forecasts. Lifeguards will clear patrons off the beach and out of the water when a storm is 6 miles away. If the storm is approaching quickly or if the beach is crowded, beachgoers will be alerted sooner.
Palm Beach County Ocean Rescue offers the following beach tips to avoid being hit by lightning when a storm approaches:
- Stay out of the water
- Leave beaches, piers, and boardwalks; seek shelter as soon as possible.
- Move to a sturdy building. Once inside, stay away from any wiring or plumbing.
- A hard top car provides protection but do not touch any metal in the car.
- If no shelter is available, seek the lowest spot you can find. Don’t be the highest object on the horizon, and avoid open spaces. Don’t sit under beach umbrellas or on aluminum beach chairs.
- Do not take a shower.
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