Here's what to do if thunder and lightning erupt Thursday in San Diego County
A fast moving Pacific storm has been producing thunder and lightning in Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. The National Weather Service says the system will move into northern San Diego County between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. on Thursday, then spread countywide.
Such storms can be deadly; on average, 47 people are killed by lightning each year in the US. Lightning can heat the air around a bolt to 50,000 degrees.
The weather service offices the following advice on how to cope with such storms:
No place outside is safe when a thunderstorm is in the area. Get inside as soon as you hear thunder. Run to a substantial building or hard-topped metal vehicle as fast as you can.
If you can’t get to a safe building or vehicle:
Avoid open areas. Don’t be the tallest object in the area.
Stay away from isolated tall trees, towers or utility poles. Lightning tends to strike the taller objects in an area
Stay away from metal conductors such as wires or fences. Metal does not attract lightning, but lightning can travel long distances through it.
If you are with a group of people, spread out. While this actually increases the chance that someone might get struck, it tends to prevent multiple casualties, and increases the chances that someone could help if a person is struck.
If someone is struck by lightning:
Cardiac arrest is the immediate cause of death for those who die. Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge and may need first aid immediately.
Call for help. Call 9-1-1.
Give first aid. Begin CPR if you are trained.
Use an Automatic External Defibrillator if one is available. These units are lifesavers.
Don’t be a victim. If possible, move the victim to a safer place. Lightning CAN strike twice.