In outdoor activities, safety is the top priority. During thunderstorm season, how to effectively prevent lightning strikes has always been a hot topic. When encountering lightning in the wild, even everyday items like a mobile phone or metal tools you carry can attract lightning strikes. In previous lessons, we have introduced various methods of lightning protection in outdoor sports, including those related to off-road driving. Drivers are also aware that when lightning occurs, taking shelter in a car is the safest option. The metal body of a car acts as an effective Faraday cage during a lightning strike, and cars are also equipped with a lightning protection device called a “static grounding strap” during production. The shielding effect of the car can also effectively insulate against lightning, thus ensuring personal safety.
Is hiding in a car to avoid lightning really reliable? Let’s take a look at a video showing what happens when lightning directly strikes a car.
This video confirms the effectiveness of a car’s lightning protection, but does that mean hiding in a car during a thunderstorm is always safe? There are still some precautions you should take:
1. Try to stay in the middle of the car, keeping a distance from doors and windows.
2. Keep the car doors and windows closed.
3. It’s best not to start the car while taking lightning precautions.
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