When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!
Pennsylvania’s Lightning Risk:
A striking statistic - Pennsylvania sees over 240,000 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes per year! We average five lightning strikes for each square mile of PA land in a given year. Lightning is dangerous and unpredictable, with bolts able to stretch over ten miles from the storm. It’s no wonder every Pennsylvanian is at risk for lightning strikes.
Since 1959, there have been 139 deaths from lightning in Pennsylvania. Across the U.S., statistics show most deaths occur outdoors, and the vast majority are males (80%). Common Pennsylvania summer activities like fishing, camping, farming, and boating top the list where the most people have been struck and killed. So, how can we stay safe?