Don't lean on doors during a thunderstorm. When lightning strikes a vehicle, it goes through the metal frame into the ground. Remember, convertibles, motorcycles, bicycles, open-shelled outdoor recreational vehicles and cars with fiberglass shells offer no protection from lightning. Myth: Rubber tires on a car protect you from lightning by insulating you from the ground.įact: Most cars are safe from lightning, but it is the metal roof and metal sides that protect you, NOT the rubber tires. “Bolts from the blue” can strike 10-15 miles from the thunderstorm. Myth: If it’s not raining or there aren’t clouds overhead, you’re safe from lightning.įact: Lightning often strikes more than three miles from the center of the thunderstorm, far outside the rain or thunderstorm cloud. The Empire State Building is hit an average of 23 times a year Myth: Lightning never strikes the same place twice.įact: Lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly, especially if it's a tall, pointy, isolated object. See our safety page for tips that may slightly reduce your risk.

If you are too far to run to one of these options, you have no other good alternative. Run to a substantial building or hard topped vehicle. Myth: If you're caught outside during a thunderstorm, you should crouch down to reduce your risk of being struck.įact: Crouching doesn't make you any safer outdoors.

Doesnt affect me