Lightning is the most dangerous and frequently encountered weather hazard experience by people each year. It is the second most frequent weather-related killer in the United States. Colorado ranks 10th in the United States in both injuries and deaths caused by lightning. In an average year, lightning kills 3 and injures 18 people. Most victims are struck while playing golf or field sports and while in or near water. It can strike as far as five or 10 miles from the storm.

Before storm season beings, remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall or be blown around and cause injury or damage during a thunderstorm.

If you find yourself outdoors or in an area where thunderstorms are in the forecast or about to happen, follow these precautions:

• Remember the “30-30” rule: After seeing lightning outside, go indoors if you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay inside for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
• Hard top cars offer shelter as well, but avoid convertibles. Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside it than outside.