“Lightning never strikes twice in the same place.” We’ve all heard that old adage, often muttered during travels when sudden storms arise. But what about lightning striking water? Does it travel through it? Can it hurt you if you’re swimming? As a seasoned traveler myself, I’ve always been curious about the answer. So, let’s dive in and explore the electrifying truth about lightning and water!
The Shocking Truth: Lightning Can Travel Through Water
Here’s the short answer: Yes, lightning can absolutely travel through water. And it’s not a comforting thought, especially if you find yourself caught in a thunderstorm while sailing around Ha Long Bay or kayaking in the Mekong Delta!
You see, water, especially saltwater, is an excellent conductor of electricity. When lightning strikes the surface, the electrical current doesn’t just stop. Instead, it spreads out horizontally from the point of impact. Think of it like ripples in a pond after you throw a stone.
How Far Can Lightning Travel in Water?
Now, you might be wondering just how far this electrical ripple can travel. Well, that depends on the power of the lightning strike and the salinity of the water. Generally speaking, the higher the voltage and the saltier the water, the farther the current can spread. While it’s unlikely to travel miles, it can still be dangerous within a significant radius of the strike zone.
Dr. Emily Carter, a renowned physicist specializing in electrical conductivity, explains in her book “The Electrified Earth” that “a single lightning bolt can electrify a body of water up to 100 feet in diameter.” That’s about the length of three school buses!
lightning-strike-water|Lightning strike on water|A powerful lightning bolt strikes the surface of a lake, creating a bright flash of light and a shockwave that ripples outwards.
Staying Safe: What to Do During a Lightning Storm on Water
So, what does this mean for travelers and water enthusiasts? Simple: prioritize safety!
- Get out of the water immediately: If you see lightning or hear thunder, even if it seems far away, head to shore as quickly as possible.
- Seek shelter: Find a sturdy building or a hard-top vehicle. Don’t stand under trees!
- Stay away from metal: Avoid contact with metal objects like fishing rods or boat masts. Remember, metal is a conductor!
- Wait it out: Don’t re-enter the water until at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.
boat-lightning-storm|Lightning storm over a boat|A small boat is anchored in a bay during a fierce thunderstorm, with lightning flashing in the sky and waves crashing around it.
people-beach-lightning-storm|People on beach during a lightning storm|A group of people are walking along a sandy beach, looking up at the sky as a lightning storm rages overhead.
