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Unveiling Fascinating Facts About Thunderstorms That Might Surprise You

Intense storms, at first glance, may appear as a straightforward natural occurrence. However, a closer examination reveals a dramatic buildup. The sky darkens, the thunder intensifies, the flashes of lightning precede, and ultimately, downpours drench everything in sight.

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Unveiling Unnoticed Facts About Thunderstorms: A Revealing Look
Unveiling Unnoticed Facts About Thunderstorms: A Revealing Look

Unveiling Fascinating Facts About Thunderstorms That Might Surprise You

In the realm of weather phenomena, few events are as awe-inspiring as a thunderstorm. Yet, these spectacles of nature can also be dangerous, and understanding the facts about lightning is crucial for staying safe.

Let's begin by debunking some common myths:

  1. Metal objects attract lightning strikes. In reality, lightning is attracted primarily by height, pointed shape, and isolation, not by metal presence. While metal conducts electricity, it does not attract lightning.
  2. Lightning never strikes the same place twice. This is false; many places, especially tall structures, can be struck multiple times.
  3. You are safe from lightning if there is no rain or clouds overhead. Lightning can strike far outside the main thunderstorm, even when skies look clear. "Bolts from the blue" have been known to hit up to 10–20 miles from the storm.
  4. Being the tallest object or standing under a tree is safer. Lightning can strike anywhere, and trees can conduct electricity into the ground, posing risks even underneath them.
  5. Lying flat on the ground protects you from lightning. This is dangerous because when lightning strikes the ground, current spreads horizontally. Lying flat increases contact area, increasing the risk of shock. A better option if caught outdoors is to crouch low with feet together to minimize ground contact.
  6. Rubber-soled shoes or car tires protect against lightning. Rubber insulation has little effect. In cars, safety comes from the metal frame that directs lightning current around occupants, not the tires.
  7. Touching someone struck by lightning will electrocute you. Once struck, the person does not retain electrical charge and can safely be touched for CPR.
  8. Lightning protection is only needed in storm-prone areas or for large buildings. Lightning can strike anywhere, and any building can benefit from protection. DIY lightning protection installation often results in unsafe setups; professional installation is recommended.

These misconceptions can lead to unsafe behavior during thunderstorms and inadequate protective measures at home.

Now, let's delve into some fascinating facts:

  • The F-106 Delta Dart, a historic aircraft, was struck by lightning over 700 times during its flights and never crashed.
  • A single lightning bolt is significantly hotter than the surface of the sun, reaching temperatures as high as 50,000°F (around 27,700°C).
  • People have been killed by lightning strikes while bathing, showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry. It is dangerous to take a shower during a thunderstorm as the electrical charge from lightning can give a serious shock if the water is running.
  • The height and pointy-topped nature of a structure or tree is the most dominant factor in whether it's struck by lightning.
  • Forest fires can cause lightning due to smoke and carbon microparticles becoming static hotspots in the upper atmosphere.
  • The Empire State Building in New York City is struck by lightning an average of 23 times every year.
  • Commercial airplanes are struck by lightning once or twice a year. Being under a tree during a storm is the second leading cause of lightning-related deaths.
  • Driving through water spread across a road after a storm can be dangerous. Six inches of standing water can cause a car's engine to stall, and undercurrents can quickly sweep a car off the road.
  • The time right after a storm can be the most dangerous due to fallen trees, downed power lines, flooding, debris, broken glass, and traffic havoc.

Remember, staying safe during thunderstorms requires understanding the facts and debunking the myths. Always seek shelter indoors or in a vehicle during a storm, avoid tall and isolated structures, and never stand under a tree. By staying informed, we can all enjoy the spectacle of a thunderstorm while minimising the risks.

[1] NOAA. (2021). Lightning Safety. Retrieved from https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning [2] National Geographic. (2018). Lightning Myths and Facts. Retrieved from https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/lightning-myths-facts [3] American Red Cross. (2021). Lightning Safety. Retrieved from https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/online-courses/home-preparedness/lightning-safety [4] National Lightning Safety Institute. (2021). Lightning Safety. Retrieved from https://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/ [5] UL. (2021). Lightning Protection. Retrieved from https://www.ul.com/resources/lightning-protection-systems-overview

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