Summer Lightning Storms

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Lightning Storm

Here in New Mexico, we have to keep a close eye on the weather, as we are all too familiar with how quickly things can change. So now that monsoon season has really started (the actual start date is June 15, but nothing really happened then), we need to be aware of what is happening outside. We celebrate the rain when it comes, and it is a sign of relief for our drought-stricken state. For several of us, we like to sit outside and watch the rain as it comes down. Just give me a cup of coffee and let me sit in peace, so needless to say, but I will anyway, all the rain we got over the weekend set the stage for peaceful moments.

Something else I love about summer is watching the lightning storms over the city—some of my favorite local photographers capture pictures of lightning that leave me speechless. However, as beautiful the lightning is, there is also a danger. Lightning can travel from miles away to find its target. This year some of the concerns are an increase in lightning strikes while people are out hiking. This is more of a concern this year as more people are taking advantage of all the wonders that New Mexico offers since there are still so many restrictions everywhere else. Lightning can also start fires and cause other damage to structures.

Here are a few tips to follow during a lightning storm.

If you’re caught outside during a storm:

• Try to find shelter
• Get as low as possible, but do not lie down
• Stay off your cell phone
• Get out of your tent
• Toss away any metal objects
• If you’re with a group, separate from each other

If you’re inside during a storm:

• Stay inside
• Stay off corded phones (I know these aren’t really around, but there are still some)
• Stay off other corded electronics or electrical equipment
• Stay away from windows and doors
• Do not lie on concrete floors or against concrete walls

Stay safe, New Mexico, and be aware of your surroundings.

Until next time,

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