After recent Illinois lightning strikes, officials share safety tips

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Ill. (HEARTLAND NEWS) – Officials are reminding residents to take lightning safety seriously following a recent strike that sent a Franklin County man to the hospital.

Lightning can strike more than 10 miles away from the storm itself, whether you’re at the pool, lake or courts. Emergency management officials say the biggest mistake people make is waiting until the rain starts before heading inside.

“Lightning often strikes outside the area of the heaviest rainfall, and if you can hear thunder, you’re in danger,” said Brian Burgess, director of the Williamson County Emergency Agency.

Scott Radecki teaches tennis lessons at Herrin City Park and constantly monitors weather conditions as part of his outdoor job. He tracks weather on his phone, especially on days with uncertain conditions.

“I’ve had lessons later in the day, had to go back to Marion, drive to courts, a popup storm came, started raining, so it’s just kind of part of the job and you just try to deal with it the best you can,” Radecki said.

Burgess said people need to know where they’ll go if storms develop before heading outdoors. The National Weather Service says you need to stay inside a safe building for at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder because all thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous.

If you’re caught outside and can’t immediately find shelter, stay away from isolated tall trees, towers and utility poles. If you are in a group of people, make sure you spread out.

Lightning can also be dangerous inside buildings as well.The National Weather Service says Electricity travels through anything that’s metal or any medium, including electronics.

“Lightning will travel through wiring and plumbing if your building is struck, so don’t take a bath or a shower or wash dishes during the storm,” Burgess said.

Official organizations like the CDC offer a simple reminder: when thunder roars, go indoors.