Is Staying in a Vehicle Safe During a Lightning Storm?

Risk of Lightning Strike

When caught in a lightning storm, a vehicle can become a lightning rod due to its metal body. The National Weather Service estimates that a lightning strike can reach temperatures of up to 50,000 degrees Celsius, hotter than the surface of the sun. This can cause the vehicle’s metal to melt, ignite flammable materials, or shock occupants through electrical pathways.

Safer Alternatives

If you cannot escape the storm, look for a hard-topped vehicle with the windows closed. This can reduce the risk of injury. However, if the storm is severe and the lightning is frequent, it’s best to abandon the vehicle and seek a safer shelter, such as a building or a hard-topped vehicle with a metal roof. Avoid small sheds, picnic shelters, or any enclosed metal objects.

Precautions and Timing

Avoid driving during a thunderstorm, as the risk of a lightning strike is higher on the road. If you’re driving and encounter a storm, pull over to a safe location and wait for the storm to pass. If you’re caught driving and see lightning, stop the vehicle immediately and seek shelter. Avoid touching metal objects, such as door handles or antennas, and keep your feet off the metal floor.