Safest place to watch lightning outside?

Question

I like to stand outside during thunder and lightning storms cuz i like the rain and stuff....hehe im weird xD but to avoid getting struck, where's the best place to stand? like in the middle of my driveway or near a tree so im not the tallest object?

Answer 1

The safest place is probably on the porch {if you have one} or from the deck {also if you have one}.

Answer 2

well, the safest place would be inside your house but if you insist on being outside you probably should stand under some kind of metal shed (without touching it!) that way if lightning strikes at your exact spot it would function as a "cage" for it.

the principal is simple, the lighting will take the "easiest" route to the ground, "easiest" being the one with less resistance. so the worst place to be would be on an empty hill and the best under something that will transfer is to the ground without hurting you.

standing by a tree might sound reasonable but there have been cases where the current "jumped" from the tree to the person standing near it.

hope this helps. be safe :-)

Answer 3

Absolutely not near a tree! When a tree gets struck the trunk can explode outwards, killing or injuring anyone next to it.

If you must stand outside the best place is probably near (but not too near) a large metal structure or a building with a lightning conductor. If you feel your hair standing on end, lie flat on the floor!

Answer 4

Lightning always seeks the easiest path to ground and there may be a very high potential difference (perhaps 600,000 volts) trying to complete the circuit.  A tall object provides a protective zone within a 45 degree cone about the highest point.  However, once lightning strikes a tree it may explode off branches from the superheat.  Also anything near the tree may provide a better path than the tree for part of the lightning bolt that may split up while following the (dry?) bark.  If the lightning strikes the ground somewhat near you the electricity may radiate outward from the point of entry in all directions, going up one leg and down the other.  The safest place is inside a large dry building.  Stay away from pipes, electrical appliances and landline phones.  Outside, the safest place may be crouching in a low area well away from isolated tall trees.

I was once walking outside holding an umbrella as it started to sprinkle.  It started to thunder as I crossed an exposed overpass crossing a railroad track.  When I saw and heard sparks arcing in the umbrella handle I threw it away and crouched.  I am sure that a bolt of lightning was checking me out.

I just heard a news item today on TV that a young woman was struck by lightning with nerve damage that is expected to heal.  Someone suggested that she buy a lottery ticket, and it won.  That is probably a better way to press your luck.