NWS Ft. Worth

Lightning...the underrated killer

MYTHS VS. FACTS

MYTH:	If it is not raining, then there is no danger from lightning.	It's Not Raining - No Way I'll Get Struck
FACT:	Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.	It's Not Raining - No Way I'll Get Struck

MYTH:	The rubber soles of shoes or rubber tires on a car will protect your from being struck by lightning.	My Shoes Will Protect Me From Lightning
FACT:	Rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.	My Shoes Will Protect Me From Lightning

MYTH:	People struck by lightning carry an electrical charge and should not be touched.	Don't Touch Them Or You'll Get Shocked
FACT:	Lightning-strike victims carry NO electrical charge and should be attended to immediately.	Don't Touch Them Or You'll Get Shocked

MYTH:	"Heat Lightning" occurs after very hot summer days and poses no threat.	Heat Lightning Strikes When It's Hot
FACT:	What is referred to as "heat lightning" is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far away for thunder to be heard. However, the storm may be moving in your direction!	Heat Lightning Strikes When It's Hot