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In the United States each year, there are about 25 million cloud-to-ground lightning strikes. While lightning can be fascinating to watch, it is extremely dangerous. According to the National Lightning Safety Institute, between the years 1990 and 2003, there were 756 lightning deaths in the United States. Bringing that down to the local level, Alabama had 24 reported lightning deaths during that time, which ranked 7th in the nation for highest mortality rate. While those numbers have come down significantly in recent years, Alabama regularly has someone that falls victim to a lightning strike. In fact, Alabama already has one confirmed death for 2012. The problem is, there are still people who wait too long to seek safe shelter. We continue to urge people to follow the motto, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors . . .and stay there at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder."
Throughout the week, we will highlight certain aspects of Lightning Safety. Here are the topics that will be covered each day:
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