As the summer months approach, lightning activity will soon ramp up.
More than 70% of lightning-related deaths take place in June, July and August. Those months are also when people spend the most time outdoors. Nearly one-third of annual lightning deaths come in July alone, according to the National Weather Service data from 2006 to 2024.
Lightning is the second-leading cause of storm-related deaths in the United States, according to the National Weather Service. In recent years, however, the number of lightning-related deaths has declined steadily.
Deaths related to lightning strikes tumble
More: Most fatal lightning strikes kill people doing this routine activity
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Though fewer people are dying from lightning strikes, the danger to to people, planes and infrastructure may still be on the rise. Scientists say they expect the frequency of lightning strikes to grow as the climate changes.
Daily lightning strikes peaked in May 2024
Thunderstorms thrive on two basic conditions: moisture and rapidly rising warm air, according to the National Weather Service. The combination of high humidity and warm temperatures causes large amounts of warm, moist air to rise into the atmosphere. That’s where it can easily produce a thunderstorm and the chance of lightning.
The chart below provided by Vaisala Xweather, a meteorological data company, shows the valleys of calmer weather and the peaks of lightning activity as storm systems move across the country.
Where lightning strikes the most in the U.S.
Texas, Florida and Oklahoma are the lightning capitals of the United States, according to Vaisala Xweather. But Texas stands out among the top three: The 10 counties with the most lightning strikes per square mile in 2024 are in Texas.
Florida’s Polk County, though, had the highest total lightning density: about 852,000 last year.
What should you do during a lightning storm?
Check to see whether any thunderstorms have been forecast in your area to help you determine whether you should reconsider your outdoor plans.
“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!,” the motto of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, has been helpful to millions of people. The majority of victims are hit in the open – either on golf courses or beaches – or while they are sheltering under a tree.
These tips will help you lower your risks:
• If outdoors, seek shelter. Stay alert for storms. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles from a cloud before and after rain begins. Trees and open-sided shelters are not safe. Seek shelter inside a building or a vehicle.
• Cars offer lightning shelter. If a lightning strike hits a car, the current flows through the metal frame toward the ground. Lightning then jumps from the wheel to the ground.
• Skip the bath or washing dishes. Lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing. Avoid contact with running water during a lightning storm to reduce your risk of being struck. It’s best to avoid touching any electronics, such as computers or game systems. Lightning can travel through electrical systems.
CONTRIBUTING Marc Ramirez and Jim Sergent
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Which state has the most lightning? See map