The odds of being struck by lightning in Canada are lower than one in a million. Yet each year, six to 12 Canadians are killed by lightning and many more are injured.
One well-known lightning guideline is the "30-30" rule: Take appropriate shelter when you can count 30 seconds or fewer between lightning and thunder, and remain sheltered for 30 minutes after the last thunder. IMPORTANT: Read Environment Canada's Lightning in Canada especially the Lightning Safety web page.
30 Seconds: |
30 Minutes: |
|---|---|
When there are fewer than 30 seconds between the flash of lightning and the rumble of thunder, you should seek immediate shelter in a well-constructed building. If no such building is nearby, then the best choice is to get into a hard-topped vehicle such as a car, van or RV. If you are caught outside and cannot quickly get to a building or vehicle, then you should do the following:
|
Maintain lightning safety precautions for 30 minutes after the last flash of lightning or rumble of thunder. There have been a number of documented cases of lightning striking the ground many kilometres away from a thunderstorm, even though the storm may be moving away. |
Updated 2013 APRIL 15 MONDAY | TODAY IS
