Lightning Safety Awareness Week 2018

Lightning Safety Awareness Week

June 24-30, 2018

Lightning Safety Awareness Week was started in 2001 to educate the public about the dangers of lightning. Since its inception, there has been a steady decline of lightning fatalities on average. There are many myths surrounding the phenomena of lightning. We encourage you to take this week to educate yourselves with some knowledge about lightning safety to help keep you and your loved ones safe.

When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!

Each day this week will be dedicated to a specific aspect of lightning safety. Follow the links to learn more...

Sunday: Introduction to Lightning

Monday: Science of Lightning

Tuesday: Outdoor Lightning Safety

Wednesday: Indoor Lightning Safety

Thursday: Lightning Safety and Sports Activities

Friday: Medical Effects on Lightning Victims

Saturday: Protecting Your Home From Lightning

Lightning over Lake Decatur on 2/28/2017. Photo by Paul Hadfield.

Lightning over Mattoon, 8/24/2016. Photo by Miles Trueblood

Lightning Safety

There are an estimated 25 million cloud-to-ground lightning flashes each year in the United States, nearly 800,000 of which occur in Illinois alone.
Lightning can be fascinating to watch, but it is also extremely dangerous – it is the underrated killer
Each year in the United States, more than 1,000 people are struck by lightning
On average, around 50 people are killed and hundreds of others suffer permanent neurological disabilities
Visit the NWS Lightning Safety Awareness web page for more information