Getting caught in a thunderstorm can be a harrowing experience, but surprisingly, research suggests that being drenched in rain may increase chances of survival if lightning strikes. According to a recent study, 3D models of human heads exposed to the equivalent of a direct lightning strike show less damage when wet.
The idea that water on the skin might reduce the impact of a lightning strike is not new, but the extent to which it affects human heads in particular remained unclear. The researchers at Ilmenau University of Technology in Germany aimed to investigate this phenomenon by building two human head models with different conductive properties. One model was left dry, while the other was sprayed with rainwater.
The results were striking. In the simulations, both models showed a flashover effect, where an electrical current traveled across the scalp. However, the wet model showed a significantly lower average electrical current in the brain layer and specific energy in the brain compartment compared to the dry model. This difference could contribute to the higher survival rate observed in wet animals in earlier experiments.
The researchers also observed fewer signs of damage, such as perforations of the scalp or cracks, on the wet head model after the lightning strike. While the study has limitations, it suggests that being outdoors and getting wet during a thunderstorm might actually be a safer option than being dry.
Being Wet During a Lightning Strike May Increase Survival ChancesLead researcher René Machts emphasized the importance of finding shelter and making oneself as small as possible, adding that further research is needed to quantify the effect of headgear on the electrical current in the head. The potential benefits of wet skin in a lightning strike are undeniable, and the researchers plan to create more head models to explore this phenomenon further.
In the meantime, for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who find themselves caught in a thunderstorm with no shelter in sight, the findings offer a glimmer of hope. While it is still crucial to prioritize safety and seek shelter whenever possible, knowing that wet skin may offer some protection can be a reassuring thought on a rainy day.