Illinois Residents Warned to Stay Alert as Lightning Threat Increases

Here's an important reminder from weather experts: there is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are nearby.  It only takes one lightning strike to cause serious injury of even death, and if you can hear thunder, you're already close enough to be struck.

I've seen endless news reports the last couple weeks about fatalities involving lightning strikes.  This is very concerning, considering it can really happen to anyone.  With all the storms we've had around Illinois lately, I wanted to make sure I was protecting myself from any kind of weather dangers.

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The best thing you can do is head indoors as soon as you hear thunder.  The safest places are a substantial building with electricity or plumbing or a fully enclosed vehicle with a metal roof and windows rolled up.  Once you're inside, don't rush back out after the rain stops.  Experts recommend staying sheltered for at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder.

Even indoors, there are a few precautions worth taking.

• Avoid using corded phones, computers plugged into the wall, and other electrical equipment
• Stay away from plumbing fixtures like sinks, showers, and faucets
• Avoid windows, doors, porches, concrete floors, and concrete walls during the storm

If you're caught outside with no shelter nearby, your goal is to reduce your risk as much as possible.  Get off high ground immediately, stay away from isolated trees, ponds, lakes, rivers, power lines, barbed wire fences, and other metal objects that conduct electricity.  Whatever you do, don't lie flat on the ground, as that can actually increase risk if lightning strikes nearby.

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Summer storms are no joke in Illinois.  They move quickly, and can do a lot of damage to properties, and people.  Taking lightning seriously whenever you're out hiking, at a baseball game, grilling outside, or just enjoying a day outside.  When thunder roars, don't chase it.