Facts & Myths

Myth: If it is not raining, there is no danger from lightning.

Fact: Lightning often strikes far from heavy rainfall. It may occur as far as ten miles away from any rainfall.

Myth: Rubber soles on shoes or rubber tires on a car will protect your from being injured by lightning

Fact: Rubber provides no protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides some protection if you are not touching metal.

Myth: People struck by lightning carry and electrical charge and should not be touched.

Fact: Lightning victims carry no electrical charge and should be attended to immediately

Myth: Heat lightning occurs on very hot summer days and poses no threat.

Fact: What is referred to as "heat lightning" is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far away for thunder to be heard. However, the storm may be moving in your direction.