Click here for more. In the United States, an average of about 400 people are injured or killed by lightning strikes each year. Among weather-related hazards, only flash floods kill more.
Tornadoes rank third and hurricanes fourth.
Most deaths by lightning occur out in the open or under trees. If they're hit, you may receive the jolt directly via a side flash or through the ground. Go to the bottom of a hill or ravine. If you're the highest point in an open field, make yourself a small target. Sit or kneel, put your hands on your knees and tuck your head.