Texas Maintained Top List of Lightning Events in the US, Report Says

According to a recent report, Texas remained at the top list of lightning events in the United States. In addition, the country recorded an increase in lightning activity in 2022.

Lightning conditions could be life-threatening. As a result, forecasts emphasized severe weather conditions with severe thunderstorms.

Experts and meteorologists observed the emergence of lightning in the United States to monitor the possible increase compared to last year.

According to AccuWeather's recent report, Vaisala Xweather looked into lightning activity and trends in different states.

The 2022 report showed that the United States recorded about 198 million lightning events in 2022, based on Vaisala Xweather's report.

In addition, the 2022 annual lightning report showed that the country's lightning events appeared normal.

The observance of lightning activities in the country is essential, especially the fatalities and the impact of hurricanes.

On the other hand, AccuWeather and the Vaisala Xweather revealed that Texas maintained at the top of recorded lightning events this year. The report explained that the 2022 emergence in Texas had only 27.7 million lightning events, unlike 41.9 million in 2021.

The report showed the top lightning count states include Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Alabama, and Missouri.

(Photo : by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)
Cape Canaveral, Florida, on August 16, 2022.

Meanwhile, the report also noted that Hurricane Ian, which had a catastrophic impact on the United States in 2022, produced about 34,000 lightning events, according to meteorologist at Vaisala Xweather Chris Vagasky.

Life-threatening situation

As mentioned, lightning events could bring risks or life-threatening situations. According to the CDC's Natural Disasters and Severe Weather Tips, knowing the lightning safety tips is essential.

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service and NOAA reported that 19 people died due to lightning in the United States, adding to the increase in lightning events and lightning fatalities.

Know the weather conditions

CDC's lightning tips emphasized the importance of staying updated with the weather and severe thunderstorms. In addition, the report said it is best to reschedule your trip or outdoor activities when there is a threat of lightning, especially if there is no safe shelter to hide during lightning emergence.

Stay indoors or find the nearest shelter

If you hear the thunder roars, you must find the nearest shelter and avoid open structures. Instead, find safe places like shopping centers, offices, or homes.

It is best to return to shore immediately when you are in open water, including ponds, lakes, and rivers.

In addition, be mindful of electronic equipment, making sure your home has surge protectors. Keeping away from power lines or anything that conducts electricity would prevent risks of lightning.

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Remember that most storms, hurricanes or severe weather conditions could unload severe thunderstorms and lightning events.

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service added that people should avoid doors and windows when thunder roars.

Staying inside a safe shelter for 30 minutes during severe thunderstorms would be the best action. In addition, being in a safe shelter would reduce the risks of being struck by lightning.