On Thunderstorms and Road Safety: Navigating Your Vehicle Through the Storm
Navigating appropriate conduct: Guidelines for proper behavior
Summertime storms can be mesmerizing or downright terrifying, but with the right precautions, road users can keep themselves safe. This guide focuses on the road-related risks for drivers, cyclists, and campers during thunderstorms.
Thunderstorm Just Around the Corner: A Summary of RisksFirst things first: A direct lightning strike into a car is incredibly rare, according to ADAC. However, that does not mean that thunderstorms are entirely risk-free for road users.
What Happens in a Normal Car?The car's body forms a Faraday cage, effectively deflecting electrical discharge around the passengers during a storm. Close windows and sunroofs, and retract any antennas for added safety.
Are Convertibles Really Riskier?Even in a closed convertible, there's no increased risk due to the presence of metal rods that can conduct electrical current. Exceptionally, post-strike damage like scorch marks on the convertible top or paintwork is possible.
Thunder Safety in Motorhomes and CaravansMotorhomes and caravans with metal frames have protective Faraday cages, making them generally safe. However, take the necessary measures when a storm approaches, such as closing windows, excavating electrical connections, and keeping your head away from roof areas. On the other hand, plastic-body vehicles without a metal frame or outer mesh walls offer no protection against lightning strikes, so seek shelter in the middle of the vehicle or inside a solid structure.
Exposed to the Elements: Cyclists and ThunderstormsCyclists are highly vulnerable to lightning owing to their metallic bikes and external locations. If you hear thunder, quickly dismount and seek substantial shelter in a building or a hard-topped vehicle. Avoid shelters underneath trees, as they can attract lightning.
Campers Under the StormCamping in a tent during a thunderstorm is hazardous. Seek shelter inside a building or vehicle when possible. If that's not an option, move away from isolated trees, low elevation areas, water bodies, and metallic objects.
When the Weather Channel Forecasts Severe WeatherDuring announced severe weather, it's advisable to postpone outdoor activities and stay in safe, indoor spaces. Keep an eye on weather apps and local news for storm updates.
Safety Guidelines for Cyclists, Caravans, and Motorhomes- In the open: Crouch with your legs closed and head tucked in. Avoid sitting or lying down. Do not touch other people or metallic objects.- Under a bridge or overhang: Stay beneath them and maintain a safe distance from bikes.- Open areas: Seek substantial cover or find a solid building or other shelter.
For Drivers: Carefully Navigating the StormEven though being struck by lightning in a car is uncommon, intense flashes can temporarily blind drivers, increasing the risk of accidents. Avoid parking at elevated points during an impending or active storm.
Other Storm-Related Hazards for Road UsersWhile the thunderstorm itself may pose the least risk for drivers, associated phenomena such as poor visibility, rain, hail, strong winds, aquaplaning, fallen branches, and other obstacles can create hazardous driving conditions. To minimize the risk:
- Avoid routes with many trees.
- In urban areas, be cautious of falling branches or toppled trees near parked vehicles.
- Proceed cautiously at wind speeds of 5 (29 to 38 km/h) and above. In case of heavy storms or hurricanes, refrain from traveling and wait for better weather.
- When considering the community policy regarding public safety during thunderstorms, it would be prudent to include guidelines on avoiding sports activities during such weather due to the increase in risks for participants.
- In the realm of employment policy, it may be necessary to implement flexible work arrangements, such as allowing employees to work from home on days when severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms, sports-betting events, or any other activities that could potentially disrupt travel, are expected. Moreover, employers should encourage their staff to be aware of local weather updates and obey safety advisories on such days.
