All thunderstorms go through various stages of growth and development. As a thunderstorm cloud continues to grow, snow and ice begin to form in higher levels of the cloud where temperatures are below freezing, and electrical charges start to build up within the cloud. Negative electrical charges near the base of the cloud cause a positive charge to build up on the ground under and near the thunderstorm. Finally, when the difference between these charges becomes to great, a giant atmospheric spark we call lightning occurs. Lightning is an underrated killer, usually claiming its victims one at a time.
Lightning also leaves many victims with life-long serious injuries.
Lightning can strike as far as 10 miles from the side of the thunderstorm cloud. In fact, many lightning victims are struck before the rain arrives or after the rain has ended and the storm is moving away. Most victims also report that at least a portion of the sky was blue when they were struck. To stay safe this summer, here are some lightning safety tips for you and your family. Avoid any contact with phones that are connected to outside wires.