NO SOONER do the summer’s hot days fade away than the wet Monsoon sets in. Rain starts to constitute a drizzle or shower or downpour.
The seasonal rainfall soothes people with a moist environment. Those working outdoors under the scorching sun have a respite from the hot environment. As the seasonal rainfall brings thunderstorms in, there is a lightning hazard tagging along and looming around.

Lightning occurs within the atmosphere in the form of a giant spark of electricity. When it passes through the air to the ground there is a shockwave created that we hear as thunder

Lightning discharges its energy by striking prominent objects such as trees, utility poles, towers, or a person standing in an open field on the ground. Being a dangerous natural force, a lightning strike can cause serious injuries or death to people and/ or damage to properties. The risk is enormously severe. Therefore, precautionary measures shall be taken as soonest as possible the moment the lightning hazard is foreseen.

There are early signs of thunderstorms just before lightning: strong winds, dark clouds, rain and distant thunder. The human sensation is also counted -skin tingling, hairs standing on the back of the neck, and/or hearing of crackling noises.

1.         If you are outdoors

a)         Seek refuge at safe shelters such as buildings or hardtop vehicles with the windows closed.

b)         Do not take shelter under trees.

c)         If a shelter is not available, immediately get your body into the lightning crouch position by squatting or sitting in a tight ball with your arms wrapped around your legs as well as keeping your feet together touched, head lowered, ears covered, and eyes closed. (It ensures you as small a target as possible.)

d)         Separate from each other if you are with others.

e)         Follow the 30/30 Lightning Safety Rule: 1st 30 -There is an estimated time of 30 seconds between seeing the lightning flash and hearing the thunder clap. 2nd 30 -After seeing the last lightning flash or hearing the thunderclap, wait 30 minutes before leaving the shelter. (It means no immediate lightning afterwards.)

f)          If you are travelling in a vehicle, avoid being in open vehicles such as convertibles, motorcycles, bicycles and golf carts.

2.         If you are indoors

a) Close windows and doors.

b) Keep away from doors, windows and porches.

c) Avoid lying on concrete floors and leaning against concrete walls.

d) Refrain from using electric/electronic appliances including corded phones.

e) Unplug and switch off any electrical connections as a power surge may develop at the main power supply during a lightning storm.

f) Avoid contact with water by not taking a bath or a shower, or washing dishes as there is a likelihood of lightning travelling through a building’s plumbing and metal pipes.

In addition to the primary hazard of a lightning strike, some secondary hazards do exist – fire break-out, being struck by fallen trees or poles, or debris.

With the onset of Monsoon, one and all shall be mindful of such hazards, and active with timely precautions.

Chit Ko Pe/GNLM