lightning storms can extend extensively, occasionally hitting far away accompanied by the sound of thunder. According to the National Weather Service, an annual average of 43 individuals lost their lives to lightning from 1988 to 2018. More individuals suffer injuries from lightning than those who perish, yet these injuries can be extremely severe and may lead to long-lasting disabilities.
Lightning strikes mainly impact the nervous system. The extent of the injuries is influenced by a person’s exposure to the strike and the volume of current that flows through the body. Mild injuries might include nausea, issues with balance, and muscle pain, whereas a more direct strike can lead to brain injuries, chronic pain, cognitive difficulties, sleep disturbances, personality shifts, and depression. In severe cases, lightning can induce cardiac arrest, stroke, and internal burns. Therefore, if you’re caught in a thunderstorm, what steps can you take to prevent these injuries?
