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You are at NWS Houston/Galveston »
Severe Weather Awareness Week » Lightning
Southeast Texas Severe Weather Awareness Week
February 24 - March 1, 2008 |
LIGHTNING
Lightning occurs with ALL thunderstorms. An average 93 deaths and 300 injuries
occur around the U.S. annually. An estimated 100,000 thunderstorms occur
nationwide each year. The southeast Texas area averages 50 to 60 days with
thunderstorms per year.
Lightning results from the buildup and discharge of electrical energy between
positive and negatively charged areas. Most lightning deaths or injuries occur
when people are on a golf course, near water, or standing under trees for shelter.
The late afternoon or early evening hours during the summer are the most common
times for lightning casualties nationwide, but they can occur just about any time
of year near the Gulf coast. The Gulf coast has the highest incidences of
lightning strikes annually throughout the U.S.
Lightning can strike several miles away from a thunderstorm. If you know a
thunderstorm is nearby or approaching, you should take shelter in a building and
stay away from trees, metal objects, and water. An automobile can be a relatively
safe place when lightning occurs. Avoid using telephones and electrical appliances
during a thunderstorm.
If you are caught outside during a thunderstorm...
- If you feel your hair stand on end it means lightning is about the strike.
Squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands on your knees
with your head between them. Make yourself the smallest target and minimize contact
with the ground.
- Stay away from trees and other tall objects. If you are in the woods, find the
shortest trees to seek shelter underneath.
- Use the "30-30 Rule" while outside. The first 30 is the number of seconds between
flash of lightning and the time you hear thunder. This means the lightning is
approximately 6 miles away (30 seconds divided by 5 seconds a mile). The second 30
refers to the number of minutes after the last flash of lightning or a clap of thunder
to establish an all-clear.
Lightning Statistics for Southeast Texas (1992-2007 graphs)
 Lightning Events (by month)
- Lightning Events (by time)
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weather.gov 
National Weather Service Forecast Office
