Lightning is one of the most beautiful — and most destructive — natural phenomena. Around 50 lightning strikes hit the Earth every second, and every square kilometer of the planet is struck roughly once every two months. Scientists have studied lightning for centuries, yet it remains surprisingly mysterious.
Back in the mid-18th century, Benjamin Franklin proved the electrical nature of lightning through his famous (and very risky) experiment with a storm cloud. Surprisingly, many myths about lightning haven’t changed much since then. AdmiGram.com debunks some of the most common ones.
Lightning: Facts vs. Myths
You Should Turn Off Electronics During a Storm
© Johannes Plenio / Unsplash
Most manufacturers warn that lightning strikes can damage electronics — even if your home isn’t directly hit. A nearby strike can send a power surge through electrical, phone, or cable lines, affecting everything connected to them.
Reality: It’s best to unplug expensive devices like your computer or TV before the storm begins. Trying to unplug them during the storm can actually put you at risk of electric shock.
Lightning Can Strike You Inside a House or Airplane
Lightning can enter a house through wiring — like a telephone line connected to a nearby pole. That’s why it’s best to avoid using landline phones during a storm. You should also avoid touching metal pipes, such as heating or plumbing systems, which connect to the ground.
Reality: Modern airplanes are well-protected, but statistically, lightning still strikes an aircraft about once a year. Passengers are safe — the electrical charge travels along the plane’s exterior — but it can disrupt communication systems, navigation, and onboard electronics.
Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice
© Greg Johnson / Unsplash
This is a myth. Architects of the Empire State Building dealt with this issue for years — its spire gets struck regularly.
Reality: Lightning follows the shortest path to the ground. That’s exactly how lightning rods work. Tall, pointed objects are natural targets. If you’re caught in a storm, don’t stand near tall or sharp objects — they’re exactly where lightning is most likely to strike.
Lightning Only Happens When It’s Raining
Most lightning occurs in thunderstorm clouds — but not always.
Reality: Lightning can also be triggered by volcanic eruptions, tornadoes, and dust storms. It can strike miles away from where it’s actually raining. So don’t assume you’re safe just because the rain has stopped.
Never Touch Someone Struck by Lightning
© Greg Johnson / Unsplash
This is one of the most dangerous myths!
Reality: The human body does not retain electrical charge. You can safely touch and help a lightning victim. In fact, failing to act is often what leads to fatalities. Many victims die because bystanders are afraid to provide first aid. Immediate CPR and rescue breathing can save a life.
Rubber Shoes Protect You from Lightning
Unfortunately, this myth can be deadly — especially for people relaxing outdoors.
Reality: Rubber boots or flip-flops offer no real protection against lightning. During a storm, people often take shelter under trees or beach umbrellas — both extremely dangerous places.
How to Stay Safe During a Thunderstorm
© Michael D / Unsplash
(Based on recommendations from scientists and lightning experts)
Lightning is unpredictable — you can’t eliminate the risk entirely, but you can reduce it significantly.
- Don’t stand under trees. Lightning tends to strike taller objects. Move at least twice the height of the tree away from it. When lightning hits the ground, it spreads outward, creating what’s known as “step voltage.” The farther you are, the safer you are.
- In an open field, get into a crouched position — feet together, body compact. (Yes, even standing on one foot can reduce risk.)
- Don’t hold an umbrella or fishing rod. Avoid metal objects — and remove them from your pockets.
- Cars and buses are relatively safe. Their metal frames act as a protective shield, known as a Faraday cage.
- At home, unplug electronics and turn off gas appliances. Stay away from windows. Don’t use fireplaces — the hot air can attract lightning.
- Never point a laser at storm clouds. Some studies suggest laser beams can actually attract lightning.
Lightning is powerful, unpredictable, and not to be underestimated — but with the right knowledge, you can avoid the most common (and dangerous) mistakes.
image on top: Matt Wang / Unsplash
