Lightning...what is better? being on ground with no trees, or next to a tree?

Question

i know we learned in school that you are not supposed to be next to a tree during a thunderstorm, but if you're on clear ground aren't you the highest target? doesn't that mean you will probably get hit? so lets say you are in a park and your car is 2 miles away and there is a couple trees to your right and a grassy clear area to your left. where do you go?

Answer 1

Lightning strikes an open field, or something in an open space (in this case a light pole), and if the conditions are right, the electrical current zaps anyone in the area. In this case, a wet field = the right conditions. Stay away from forms of metal. Lightning is electricity and metal is a conductor of electricity. So are you. You and the metal together make a fine target. You should not stand under tall objects like trees or towers. As tall objects, these are easy targets, and the electricity might jump to you too. If you get caught in an open field during a lightning storm, crouch down with your head between your knees (and don’t lie flat). You should try to become as small as possible.

Answer 2

I'd take my chance in the open if I were you.

In the open field, if you crouch in the foetal position (the recommended way), it doesn't guarantee your safety but somewhat reduces your chances of getting hit.

Whereas being next to the trees you're faced with several other problems; Firstly the tree is likely to catch fire, obviously there's a risk there; Secondly, along with the fire the sudden heating of the wet tree is likely to cause a steam explosion sending splinters of wood and scalding vapour in your direction; And finally, the explosive concussion of the air around the lightening bolt going in to the tree being flash heated is enough to seriously injure you. There are stories of people who were in the vicinity of a strike being hurled many metres from their original position.

If the wooded and grassy areas were right next to each other, the lightening, taking the path of least resistance, would naturally head for the trees.

Answer 3

To the grassy area.Lay down in the lowest part of the field, and pray that you don't get struck

Answer 4

Run and hide to the nearest low and dry building.

The longer you stay in the open, the more chance you're getting struck.

Answer 5

You are a much shorter lightning rod than a tree.  So go to your left, crouch down, etc.

The trees will tend to attract lightning more than you, and if you stand under one you have a good chance of getting zapped as the bolt spreads out.