When thunder roars, go indoors

Lightning strikes the ground in Colorado more than a half million times each year, and with many participating in outdoor summer activities, it’s important to learn how to protect oneself from lightning hazards.

It is important to remember that although most lightning occurs in the summer, people can be struck at any time of year. According to the National Weather Service, lightning kills an average of 47 people in the United States each year, and hundreds more are severely injured. In 2016, there were a total of 38 people killed from lightning strikes. A woman was killed from a lightning strike during May 2017 in Colorado while horseback riding.

Here are a couple important things to keep in mind before venturing outdoors:

Check the weather forecast before heading out. An informed decision will help people avoid being in an area where lightning is expected to occur.

Stay tuned to a NOAA Weather Radio, check National Weather Service websites or access weather mobile applications on a cellphone for the most current forecast.
 

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