Avoiding Peril: A Guide to Thunderstorm Safety by Forensic Pathologist Fred Zack
When thunder roars, find a safe shelter: Suggestions for avoiding trouble during a storm - Seek shelter during a lightning storm to ensure safety due to the risk of electrical discharge.
Hey there! Checking out some thunderstorm safety tips, huh? Well, buckle up since you're about to learn some practical advice from none other than expert forensic pathologist, Fred Zack, himself!
Fred, known for his research on the often deadly consequences of lightning strikes, has been working in the field for nearly three decades. He's put together a new book for the general public titled "Lightning Strikes: Knowledge, Myths, and How to Protect Yourself Optimally" (sure sounds useful!).
Fred shares in his book that we see approximately ten deaths and around 100 injuries from lightning strikes in Germany every year, and about nine out of ten of these are preventable. The goal of his book, he explains, is to empower us with knowledge and encourage people to inform themselves, so they can increase their chances of avoiding such dire consequences.
One commonly held misconception is whether one should seek shelter under beech trees during a thunderstorm. Spoiler alert - don't do it! Fred debunks this old wives' tale and explains that all trees should be avoided during a lightning storm. He clarifies that this superstition has persisted due to a memorable rhyme.
Interestingly, the saying "struck by lightning out of a clear blue sky" is actually accurate, contrary to other myths. Lightning can strike several kilometers away from the actual storm cell and can even hit sideways, as it doesn't require a storm to occur. In about 10 to 13% of all fatal lightning strike cases, it is due to lightning from a clear blue sky.
In 2024, there were about 209,619 lightning strikes nationwide on average, every two and a half minutes. Of these, Bavaria led the way with 56,664 strikes, and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania had 11,880. These statistics only account for ground strikes, which are impacts and not discharges in the clouds.
Fred also mentions the staggering heat in the center of lightning bolts, with temperatures reaching an astounding 30,000 degrees Celsius. Gold chains can't withstand this intense heat, causing them to vaporize.
Large areas, such as golf or football fields, are particularly hazardous during thunderstorms due to their openness, with frequent reports of football players being injured or killed by lightning. These cases are often not the result of direct hits but rather step voltage, where the electricity travels through the ground, enters the body through one foot, and exits through the other.
The risk of being struck by lightning in Germany is thankfully quite low compared to countries like India or countries in South America. Given that India has an average of around 3,000 deaths and about 30,000 lightning strike patients each year, Fred's textbook, aimed at medical professionals, was published in English in 2024.
In brief, to minimize the risk of lightning strikes, he emphasizes the following rules:
- When you hear thunder, immediately go indoors!
- Stay away from tall isolated objects like trees, poles, and sports fields during lightning activity.
- Avoid open fields and elevated places where you're the tallest object.
- Steer clear of water bodies and metallic objects that conduct electricity.
So there you have it! Take Fred's advice to heart, and next time a thunderstorm rolls in, you'll be in the best position to protect yourself. Remember, safety first!
- Fred Zack, a forensic pathologist, has delved into the realm of science, specifically the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, through his research on the aftermath of lightning strikes.
- His latest work, "Lightning Strikes: Knowledge, Myths, and How to Protect Yourself Optimally," covers various aspects of health-and-wellness and mental-health, aiming to educate the public.
- The book discusses the applications of science and technology in understanding the risks associated with lightning and provides suggestions for therapies-and-treatments in case of injury or illness.
- The industry of education-and-self-development would also benefit from this work, serving as a valuable resource for lifelong learners seeking personal-growth and increased knowledge about the subject.
- In addition to safety tips for the general public, Fred's book has drawn interest from the finance sector, as it discusses the economic impact and insurance considerations related to lightning-related accidents.
- The lifestyle section might find value in his insights on home-and-garden safety, such as understanding the risks associated with various landscaping materials during thunderstorms.
- The sports industry, particularly football and other outdoor activities, can draw lessons from Fred's research on the risks involved in participating during thunderstorms, thus promoting a safer environment for athletes.
- European leagues like the premier league, in which football is a popular spectator sport, can use this knowledge to implement proper safety measures for both players and fans alike.
- Beyond the scope of his work on lightning safety, Fred's book reflects his dedication to various fields, including science, education, and safety, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact on society.
