Can Thunder Physically Damage Your Ears???

Question

I was driving in a storm a few days ago, and lightning struck really close to the right of the car. It sounded like someone shot a gun an inch from my ear. For about 5 minutes after the strike, my right ear ached. Did it get damaged?

Answer 1

Highly possible that thunder could cause an ear problem, but it is highly unlikely that a person would be in such close range to a lightning bolt that it would cause irreparable damage.

Answer 2

Probably, but it isn't likely that you'll notice any pronounced hearing loss.  While short bursts can do some damage, unless they rupture your ear drum, you probably won't notice anything different by the next day.  It's long term exposure to loud noises that causes noticeable and permanent hearing loss.