is it safe to be in car during lightning

jomslae

3 min read

·

10-12-2024

55

0

Share

The rumble of thunder, the flash of lightning – a thunderstorm can be a dramatic and sometimes frightening experience. If you're caught in one, a common question arises: Is it safe to be in a car during a lightning strike?

The short answer is generally yes, a car offers significant protection during a lightning storm. However, it's not a guarantee of complete safety, and certain precautions should still be taken.

Why a Car is Relatively Safe During a Lightning Storm

The metal body of a car acts as a Faraday cage. This means that the electrical current from a lightning strike will flow around the outside of the vehicle, rather than through the interior. The electricity is conducted through the metal frame and grounded through the tires.

This protective effect is most effective in vehicles with a hardtop. Convertibles offer less protection, and you should seek alternative shelter if possible. Even with a hardtop, avoid touching metal parts inside the car during a storm.

What to Do If You're in a Car During a Lightning Storm

While a car offers significant protection, there are still some safety measures you should follow:

• Pull over safely: Avoid driving during a severe thunderstorm. Find a safe location away from tall trees and open areas to park. Turn on your hazard lights.
• Stay inside the vehicle: Remain inside your car until the storm passes. Do not exit the vehicle to seek additional shelter.
• Avoid contact with metal: Don't touch any metal parts inside the car, such as the radio or door handles. Lightning can travel through metal surfaces.
• Roll up your windows: Ensure that all windows and the sunroof (if applicable) are fully closed to prevent any potential entry points for electricity.
• Put down your phone: Avoid using your cell phone during the storm. This reduces unnecessary electronic activity and the risk of any unintended consequences.
• Wait it out: Stay inside the car until at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.

What if Lightning Strikes the Car?

Even with the Faraday cage effect, a direct lightning strike can still be a powerful event. You might experience a bright flash and a loud bang. The car's electrical system might be temporarily disrupted.

If a lightning strike occurs, don't panic. Remain calm and continue to avoid touching any metal surfaces. Once the storm has passed, carefully exit the vehicle and check for any damage.

When a Car Isn't the Safest Option

While cars provide significant protection, there are situations where they might not be the ideal shelter:

• Convertibles: Open-top vehicles offer significantly less protection.
• Motorcycles: Motorcycles are completely exposed to the elements and offer no protection.
• Near tall objects: If your car is parked near a tall tree or other tall object that could attract lightning, it may still be at risk.

In these cases, seeking a sturdy building or a substantial structure is the recommended course of action.

Conclusion

Being in a car during a lightning storm provides a relatively safe haven compared to being outdoors. However, remember to take precautions and follow the safety guidelines. Remember that while a car offers significant protection from lightning, it's not foolproof. Always prioritize safety and seek appropriate shelter whenever possible. Being aware and prepared can minimize risk and keep you safe during a thunderstorm.