Lightning Safety: What Rowan County Needs to Remember

As Severe Weather Preparedness Week continues across North Carolina, today’s focus turns to a danger many people underestimate — lightning.

Lightning strikes the United States millions of times each year. While most strikes occur during the spring and summer, lightning can happen any time thunderstorms develop.

It only takes one strike to cause serious injury or death.

Understanding the basics can save lives.

“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors”

This simple rule says it all.

If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

Lightning can strike:

• Up to 10–15 miles away from the rain shaft

• Before heavy rain begins

• After a storm appears to be moving away

You do not have to be standing in the rain to be in danger.

If thunder is audible:

Go inside immediately.

Wait at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder before returning outdoors.

Outdoor Sports & Lightning Delays

Here in Rowan County, spring and summer bring:

• Baseball and softball games

• Soccer matches

• Football practices

• Outdoor track meets

• Community events

Athletic fields are often wide open areas — making them especially vulnerable during thunderstorms.

If lightning is detected:

• Clear the field immediately

• Move players, coaches, and spectators into a substantial building

• Do not wait for rain to begin

Delaying action by even a few minutes increases risk.

Lightning safety plans should be part of every organized event.

Why Porches & Carports Are NOT Safe

Many people assume standing under a porch roof or carport provides protection.

It does not.

Unsafe locations include:

• Open garages

• Covered patios

• Picnic shelters

• Dugouts without enclosed walls

• Carports

These structures do not provide full protection from lightning.

The safest places are:

• A fully enclosed building with wiring and plumbing

• A hard-topped vehicle with windows rolled up

Partial shelter is not safe shelter.

What to Avoid During a Storm

If you are indoors during a thunderstorm, avoid:

• Using corded phones

• Taking showers

• Washing dishes

• Touching plumbing

• Standing near windows

Lightning can travel through wiring and plumbing systems.

If you are outdoors and cannot get to shelter immediately:

• Avoid open fields

• Avoid tall isolated trees

• Stay away from metal fences and poles

• Do not lie flat on the ground

Your goal is to minimize contact with the ground and reduce your exposure.

The Bottom Line

Lightning is unpredictable and extremely dangerous — but it is also highly preventable.

The key is awareness and early action.

If you hear thunder, go indoors.
If a storm is approaching, don’t wait.
If an event is underway, pause it.

Tomorrow, we’ll focus on Flash Flood Safety and why driving through water is one of the most dangerous decisions people make during severe weather.

Stay weather aware, Rowan County.