Vince_Condella's Blog

It doesn't get the fanfare or the news coverage of tornadoes, but lightning is equal to the task.  The tagic death of a 16 year old Town of Watertown boy Monday night is proof of that.  He died after being struck by lightning as another round of showers and thunderstorms rolled through southern Wisconsin.

There are an estimated 25 million lightning flashes per year, killing an average of 62 people in the United States.  Last year 45 people lost their lives to lightning.  In 2006 the fatalities due to lightning numbered 48.  So far this year that number stands at 15 deaths nationwide.

Of the 15 who have died in 2008 due to lightning,  11 were male and 4 female.  Five of the 15 deaths occured in the age bracket of 10 to 19 years old.  This year the greatest number of deaths has occured on a Saturday, probably due to this being a weekend day when many people would be outside enjoying themselves.

It is interesting to note that the average death toll in the U.S. each year for lightning and tornadoes is the same:  62 people.  There are 300 documented injuries on average each year due to lightning.  But the common lightning bolt, a feature present in every thunderstorm, does not grab the attention of most people.  Tornadoes get most of the interest and respect.  Lightning, on the other hand, is often taken for granted.

Be aware of the dangers of lightning in any thunderstorm.  Even a non-severe storm producing no hail or high wind can still be deadly due to lightning.  A lightning bolt will typically seek out the tallest object.  Avoid standing under an isolated tree.  The safest place to be is inside a sturdy structure and away from windows.

For the latest statistics on lightning in the U.S., go to this link.