Heavy rains are periodically accompanied by thunderstorms - electrical discharges in the atmosphere in the form of lightning and thunder. This atmospheric phenomenon can be extremely dangerous for humans, so you need to know how to behave in a thunderstorm.
Most lightning strikes only the upper atmosphere at the level of cumulus clouds, but they can also strike the ground. In this case, the person who is nearby is extremely risky. Lightning current can reach tens of thousands of amperes. With a direct hit, the risk of death is about 10%. In other cases, severe burns and dysfunction of the main organs are likely.
Also, thunderstorms cause significant damage to property. Lightning can cause a fire if it strikes a building or tree, and can also damage power lines, disrupting the power supply. Thunderstorms are often accompanied by strong winds, up to a hurricane or tornado, which brings additional destruction.
Lightning discharges are also dangerous for various types of transport. The risk is especially great for aircraft. The problem is solved by making design changes to aircraft to minimize possible damage, as well as by prohibiting flights in thunderclouds.
For modern large ships, thunderstorms are practically safe. But the risk remains for small vessels - sailboats and yachts. Therefore, it is advisable for their owners not to go to sea in a strong thunderstorm.
You can protect yourself from danger by observing precautionary rules. During a thunderstorm, you cannot swim in open water. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, and you can easily get hurt even if you are far from the site of the lightning strike. Avoid being in open areas such as a field. If a thunderstorm catches you by surprise, try to hide in the bushes or lie on the ground. Do not stand under a lonely tree - the higher the object, the more likely it is to attract a shock.
Buildings should be protected by installing lightning rods. Grounding of household appliances is necessary, especially in private homes. Such measures will help prevent lightning striking the house.
