Even if you are swimming in a thunderstorm and see lightning, it is not safe to swim. When the ground is wet from recent rain or melting snow, electrical charges can be present near water – this increases the danger of getting shocked by lightning strikes.
If you are standing onshore in open water when a storm begins, stay away from bodies of water (rivers, lakes etc.) as currents flowing into or out of them create more danger than usual due to electric fields surrounding the body of water. Standing close to the shoreline during a storm will reduce your chances of being hit by lightning because discharge happens closer to land and objects that may act as an antenna for electric current- such as metal poles and trees- have less effect than they would at greater distances from shorelines..
In general it’s safest to avoid contact with any part of nature while there might be lightening activity going on nearby
Is It Dangerous To Swim During A Thunderstorm?
Taking a swim in a thunderstorm with lightning present is not safe – even if you’re swimming in an open body of water. A hair dryer placed near the bathtub puts your safety at risk – because electrical charges cause more danger near water.
When lightning hits the surface of water, it creates an electric current which can flow along the surface or deep into the water depending on its location. Knowing where to find currents and avoiding them when possible is important for those who want to stay safe while bathing or swimming outdoors during a storm.
Swimming in a Thunderstorm with Lightning Present is Not Safe
Thunderstorms can be beautiful and exciting, but there are risks associated with them as well. Swimming during a thunderstorm is not safe- even if you’re in an area that’s been designated as safe by the Weather Channel or local weather officials.
Even if it looks like the storm isn’t going to reach your location, always stay alert and listen for warnings from emergency officials before making any decisions about what to do. If you must swim during a thunderstorm, make sure to take precautions such as staying close to shore and wearing a life jacket at all times.
Never try to outrun or hide from lightning- chances are you’ll only end up getting hurt worse in the process
A Body of Water = Putting a Hairdryer in a Bath
Thunderstorms can create dangerous conditions when people are near the water. If you’re swimming, be sure to stay close to shore and avoid bodies of water that may be flooded or turbid due to runoff from the storm.
Do not put a hair dryer in a bathtub or shower–the powerful current could carry it away and injure someone nearby. Keep an eye on weather forecasts before heading outside during a thunderstorm; always know your location and beware of lightning in the sky.
If you do get caught out in bad weather, seek shelter indoors if possible and wait until conditions improve
Electrical Charges Cause More Danger Near Water
If you’re in the water, stay away from electrical objects- like docks and piers- that can create dangerous charges. Even if there’s no lightning around, currents created by waves could cause problems for swimmers.
Don’t swim during a thunderstorm unless you have to. These storms can produce high electrical voltages and currents that are harmful to your health. Get out of the water immediately if you hear a loud sound – this could be an indication of an impending storm with dangerously high electric fields near bodies of water.
Be safe during any weather condition – even when it looks calm on the surface.
When Lightning Hits thesurface of water, it creates an Electric Current
There is always the potential for danger when lightning flashes in close proximity to bodies of water, but swimming during a thunderstorm is not advised due to the electric current it creates.
If you must swim, be aware that there could be dangerous currents present and stay clear of any shorelines or obstacles near the water’s surface. Never try to outrun a lightning strike- even if you’re able to get away from it temporarily- as this can result in serious injury or death.
Stay inside until all threats have passed and follow local weather advisories closely in case evacuation orders are issued by your municipality or state government.. Remember: Don’t take unnecessary risks while outdoors during a thunderstorm.
Currents can flow along the surface or deep into the water
Swimming during a thunderstorm can be dangerous because the currents can flow along the surface or deep into the water. The best way to avoid being caught in these currents is by staying close to shore.
If you are forced into deeper water, stay calm and swim towards a buoy if one is present. Never try to cross an active lightning strike. It could be fatal, and there’s probably nothing you can do about it anyway.
Make sure your family knows your plan for safety in case of a storm and have an emergency evacuation plan ready just incase something goes wrong
To Recap
Yes, swimming during a thunderstorm can be dangerous. Weather conditions are unpredictable and can change rapidly, which means that even if it looks calm outside, there is a risk of being swept away by the current in a river or lake.
If you do decide to swim during a thunderstorm please be aware of these dangers and follow all safety precautions advised by your local authority.
