Lightning strikes are serious weather hazards and can cause serious injury or death. When a lightning strike occurs, it is important to know what to do in order to minimize the potential for serious injury or death. In this article, we will discuss what happens when someone is struck by lightning and how to protect yourself.
When lightning strikes, it is a result of a rapid buildup of electrical energy in the atmosphere. This energy is released in a powerful flash of light and sound which is known as a lightning bolt. When a person is struck directly by a lightning bolt, the electrical energy is conducted through the body and can cause severe burns, tissue damage, and cardiac arrest.
The most common injuries from lightning strikes include burns, cardiac arrest, damage to the nervous system, and even death. Burns from lightning strikes are typically caused by the heat of the lightning bolt, which can reach temperatures of up to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This heat causes the body to burn and can cause extensive tissue damage. In addition, the electrical current of a lightning bolt can cause cardiac arrest, which can lead to death if not treated promptly.
The nervous system can also be affected by a lightning strike. When a lightning bolt passes through the body, it can cause nerve damage and disrupt the electrical signals that tell our muscles to move. This can cause paralysis, or even death, in extreme cases.
The psychological effects can be just as devastating. Many people who have been struck by lightning suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Avoiding being outside during a thunderstorm is the best defense against a lightning strike. If you do happen to be outside during a thunderstorm, keep a safe distance from tall objects like trees, poles, and structures. In order to shield your ears from the sound of the thunder if you find yourself in an open area, crouch down with your feet together.
It is also important to remember that lightning can strike even if the thunder is not heard. If you see a lightning bolt, count the seconds until you hear the thunder. If the time is less than 30 seconds, you are in danger of being struck by lightning. If the time is more than 30 seconds, then the lightning has already passed and you are safe.
If you are caught in a thunderstorm, seek shelter in a building or a car as soon as possible. Do not use a telephone, a sink, or any other metal objects during a thunderstorm as these can conduct electricity and increase your risk of being struck by lightning.
If someone is struck by lightning, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Even if the person appears to be unharmed, they could be suffering from internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
Lightning strikes can cause serious injury or death. It is important to take steps to protect yourself from the danger of lightning by avoiding being outdoors during a thunderstorm and seeking shelter in a safe place if you are caught in one. If someone is struck by lightning, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
