Two lightning deaths occurred last year in the Texas Panhandle. Many more people are struck, but survive. However, they often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms, including memory loss, attention deficits, sleep disorders, numbness, dizziness, stiffness in joints, irritability, fatigue, weakness, muscle spasms, depression, and an inability to sit for long periods of time. This year, the National Weather Service, will be holding a Lightning Awareness Week during the week of June 18- 22, in an effort to promote awareness of the dangers of lightning and how to stay safe from lightning. With summer approaching, more and more activities are held outdoors.
Any outdoor activity is a potential disaster if thunderstorms or lightning threatens.
Lightning can travel several miles ahead of the rain or after the rain has passed. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. Automobiles provide safe shelter from lightning, providing your not touching the metal frame. When lightning strikes a vehicle, it will usually flash around the metal frame of the vehicle. When indoors, stay away from electrical appliances and water.