RICHMOND—A record-breaking lightning bolt traveling over 500 miles from Texas to Missouri recently made headlines, and demonstrated just how far-reaching and unpredictable lightning can be.
While megaflashes like this one are rare—occurring in only 1% of thunderstorms—lightning is a regular and dangerous part of severe weather. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, lightning kills about 20 people each year and injures hundreds in the U.S. Lightning strike survivors can suffer lifelong neurological damage.
Many lightning-related deaths occur before storms even arrive, as people wait until the last minute before seeking shelter.
The National Lightning Safety Council cautions that no place outside is safe during a thunderstorm, and urges people to monitor forecasts and postpone plans when severe weather is predicted. If the sky looks threatening or you hear thunder, quickly move inside a substantial building or hard-topped vehicle.
Once indoors, avoid contact with corded phones, electrical equipment, plumbing, windows and doors until 30 minutes after the storm passes.
If stuck outside, avoid open areas and stay away from tall, isolated trees, towers, poles, wires and fences. Spread out from others to reduce the risk of multiple injuries in a single strike.
And although some might rely on the “lightning crouch” as a safety measure, experts say it’s outdated and ineffective.
“If you’re caught outside during a thunderstorm, the best plan of action is to move as fast as you can to a safer place,” said John Jensenius, a NLSC lightning safety specialist. “The sooner you get to a safe place, the less risk you’ll face. Crouching only prolongs the risk of being struck.”
In addition to keeping yourself and your family safe, homeowners should take steps to protect their property. In 2024, lightning caused over $1 billion in insurance claims nationwide, with an average of $18,641 per claim.
“Lightning can strike anywhere at any time and affect not only homes, but also trees and other structures,” said Ben Ashby, Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. underwriting personal lines manager. “Reviewing coverage with your insurance agent is one of the best ways to protect your home and property and minimize losses.”
Homeowners can safeguard their homes by having a professional lightning protection system installed. These systems use various components designed to safely intercept and direct harmful electrical discharge away from homes and into the ground—reducing the risk of fire or structural damage.
Localized, reliable surge protectors also can help shield expensive electronic equipment and appliances. Unlike simple power strips that don’t protect from electrical damage, surge protectors allow plugging in multiple devices while protecting them from a power spike.
For more information on lightning safety tips and information, visit lightningsafetycouncil.org.
-Virginia Farm Bureau
