On Air Now

Jeff Cain

8:00am - 1:00pm

  • 519-537-1047

Environment Canada Recognizes Lightning Safety Week

Every year 10 people in Canada die due to lightning strikes.

When Thunder roars, Go Indoors! 

That's the message from Environment Canada to Oxford County residents as they celebrate lightning safety week. 

Every year roughly 10 people die in Canada from lightning strikes and many more are injured. Warning Preparedness Meteorologist Peter Kimbell tells Heart FM what you should do if you hear thunder. "So if you can hear thunder it is time to take shelter. Don't wait until the rain has started. Take shelter immediately, remain sheltered for 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder because every year a few people are struck by lightning even after the rain has stopped." 

Kimbell says the worst place to hide is under a tree as lightning tends to strike taller objects. He also says, "Research shows that two-thirds of damaging lightning strikes occur when the storm is not directly above the victim but is approaching or has just passed by. So when planning outdoor activities this summer it is important to listen to weather forecasts, weather alerts, and to keep an eye on the sky as weather conditions can change quickly."

More from Local News

Comments

Add a comment

Log in to the club or enter your details below.
Rating *

Weather