ORLANDO, FL

Lightning is one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays.

  • Bolt of lightning can reach temps of 50,000 degrees
  • Lightning kills more people in FL than any other weather phenomena

The sheer power of each bolt as it shoots across the sky, seemingly forking in different directions and able to reach locations 10 to 15 miles away from the parent storm.

One bolt can reach temperatures up to 50,000 degrees—five times hotter than the sun.

Although Florida lost its title of lightning capitol of the U.S. to Mississippi, the state is still inundated with over a million strikes a year.

Did you know lightning kills more people in Florida than any other weather phenomena? On average, the state loses six people to lightning each year.

What are some ways to stay safe from lightning?

First thing is to get inside. If you cannot get indoors, do not seek shelter under a tree or tall object. Tall objects attract lightning. Get out of the pool or off the lake, as water conducts electricity.

Think of the 30-30 rule. Count the seconds between seeing lightning and hearing thunder, and if this time is under 30 seconds, lightning is a threat. After hearing the last rumble of thunder, wait at least 30 minutes before going back outside.

So how can you figure out the distance of a thunderstorm to you?

Right after you see a flash, count 1-Mississippi, 2-Mississippi, 3-Mississippi, etc. Once you hear thunder, take your number and divide it by 5. This gives you the number of miles a storm is from your location.

A few phrases to keep in mind during thunderstorm season: If you hear it, fear it, if you see it, flee it, and when thunder roars, go indoors.

No place outside is safe during a storm. 

To keep up with weather in your area, be sure to have the Spectrum News 13 app on your mobile phone or tablet.