The San Juan National Forest would like to remind people of the serious risk posed by lightning, especially in the high country during summer. The following are some common myths and facts about lightning:
Myth: Lightning never strikes the same place twice.
Fact: Lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly, especially if it’s a tall, pointy, isolated object. The Empire State Building is hit nearly 100 times a year.
Myth: If outside in a thunderstorm, you should seek shelter under a tree to stay dry.
Fact: Being underneath a tree is the second leading cause of lightning casualties. Better to get wet than fried!
Myth: Rubber tires on a car protect you from lightning by insulating you from the ground.
Fact: Most cars are safe from lightning, but it is the metal roof and metal sides that protect you, NOT the rubber tires. Don’t lean on car doors during a storm.
The Forest Service also gives some last-resort risk reduction tips for those caught outside without safe shelter:
Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges or peaks.Never shelter under an isolated tree.Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter.Immediately get out and away from ponds, lakes and other bodies of water.For other tips that may slightly reduce your risk, go to http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/safety.shtml.
jmillen-johnson@durangoherald.com
