Common Myths and Truths About Lightning| SERVPRO of Kingston/New Paltz

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Never underestimate the power of lightning! Know the facts and stay safe.

When it comes to severe weather, one of the biggest dangers that can impact those in its path would be lightning strikes. Flash flooding is more deadly, but lightning is still the leading cause of injury and deaths (from weather-related hazards) every year in America—and because every single thunderstorm contains lightning, the chances of getting struck are rather high.

There are also quite a few myths about lightning that are spoken of often, but mostly
unsubstantiated. Understanding lightning safety is so important to protecting yourself and others
during severe weather. We have dispelled some of the persistent myths pertaining to lightning strikes and severe weather.

Dispelling a Few Common Myths Regarding Lightning Strikes

~Myth: If you can’t see lightning, it is not a threat.**
**Fact: Lightning is always a threat if there is a thunderstorm nearby.**

While thunder may sound dramatic, it is actually not thunder that is a threat in the event of a
thunderstorm—lightning is. Lightning is actually what produces thunder, as the sound of the clap
occurs from lightning striking either between clouds or toward the ground. That means that if
you hear thunder, you are within a range to be struck by lightning even if you haven't seen
a strike.

~Myth: “Heat lightning” is not a threat.**
**Fact: “Heat lightning” does not exist, and is simply lightning that is too far away for
thunderclaps to reach you.**

The concept of heat lightning is completely a myth. If you see lightning, even if you do not hear any thunder, you are within the potential range of a lightning strike and could be in danger. “Heat lightning” is simply lightning from a storm in the distance that may not have reached you yet. If there are storm warnings but you haven't seen or heard anything, be safe and head indoors asap.

~Myth: If there is no rain, there is no threat of lightning.**
**Fact: Lightning can strike away from the storm’s center.**

Lightning can strike away from a storm’s center, spanning a radius of nearly 10 miles. Even if it
is not actively raining or storming in your area, it is wise to seek cover any time there is a storm
nearby to avoid getting struck by lightning from a distance.

If your home or business suffers a lightning strike or any kind of weather damage, SERVPRO of Kingston/New Paltz is here to help, 24/7.