Thunderstorms & Lightning
When Thunder Rumbles, Go Indoors
Thunderstorms and lightning are common hazards in North Carolina. Knowing how to respond can reduce your risk and protect you and your family. While most common in spring and summer, they can occur year-round. North Carolina averages 40–50 thunderstorms annually, with about 10% considered severe.
Precautions When the Skies Turn Severe
A thunderstorm is a storm system that produces thunder and lightning, usually with heavy rain and gusty winds. While most pass quickly, even a short storm can cause flooding, power outages, and property damage.
What Makes a Thunderstorm Severe?
A thunderstorm is classified as severe when it produces at least one of the following:
- Hail that is 1 inch in diameter or larger
- Wind gusts of 58 mph or stronger
- A tornado
These severe storms are capable of significant damage and often occur in clusters or lines that can impact large areas.
Precautions to Reduce Risk
- Move Indoors Quickly: At the first sound of thunder, take shelter in a sturdy building or hard-topped vehicle.
- Stay Put: Remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder to allow the storm to fully pass.
- Avoid Indoor Hazards: Lightning can travel through wires and pipes, so avoid using corded phones, electronics, and plumbing during a storm.
- Outdoor Awareness: If caught outside, avoid open areas, isolated trees, or tall objects. Move to low ground until shelter is available.
- Prevent Wind Damage: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, grills, toys, and equipment that could blow away or cause injury.
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather alerts through NOAA Weather Radio, mobile apps, or local media. Be ready to adjust travel or outdoor plans if storms are approaching.
Thunderstorms and Other Hazards
Thunderstorms can also produce flooding, hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes. Knowing how to respond to each hazard reduces additional risk.
Learn More About Tornado, High Wind & Hail Precautions Now
Additional Resources
Precautions Against Nature’s Electrical Danger
Lightning strikes the U.S. about 25 million times each year and can cause serious injury or death. The most effective precaution is to move indoors as soon as thunder is heard or lightning is seen.
Understanding Lightning Risk
- Every thunderstorm produces lightning and should be treated as dangerous.
- Lightning can strike as far as 10 miles from a storm cloud.
- Many injuries and deaths occur before or after the heaviest rain has ended.
- “Heat lightning” is a myth—distant lightning you can see is still dangerous.
- If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck.
Explore Lightning Myths vs. Facts Now
Precautions During Storms
- Plan Ahead: Postpone or reschedule outdoor activities if storms are expected.
- Move to Shelter: A sturdy building offers the best protection. If not available, a hard-topped vehicle with windows closed provides some protection. Stay inside at least 30 minutes after the last thunder.
- Know What’s Unsafe: Picnic shelters, dugouts, sheds, porches, open garages, and tents do not protect against lightning.
If Indoors
- Avoid corded phones and plugged-in electronics.
- Do not use sinks, bathtubs, or faucets—plumbing can conduct electricity.
- Stay clear of windows, doors, and concrete walls or floors.
If Outside With No Shelter
No outdoor location is completely safe from lightning, but risk can be lowered:
- Avoid high ground, isolated trees, and rocky overhangs.
- Leave water immediately, including pools, lakes, and ponds.
- Stay away from metal objects such as fences, poles, or power lines.
- Do not lie flat—move to a low area and minimize contact with the ground.