During the summer in Canada, lightning strikes every three seconds. Besides causing power outages and forest fires, lightning strikes can also seriously injure or kill.
Through recent advances in detection technology, Environment Canada’s Meteorological Service has improved its ability to track lightning and display high risk lightning areas. The new Canadian Lightning Danger Map can be found on Weather.gc.ca. These maps are updated at an interval of 10 minutes and are based on recent lightning observations.
A new video showing "How to Use the Canadian Lightning Danger Map" can be found on the Lightning in Canada website. The video will help users understand how to use the new lightning danger map and stay safe.
Most importantly, if the map indicates that you are in a danger area, or if you hear thunder, you should go to a safe location, either a building with plumbing and wiring or an all metal vehicle. Stay there for 30 minutes following the last rumble of thunder. Why stay inside so long? Research in North America shows that 1/3 of lightning injuries and fatalities occur in the early stages of a storm, 1/3 at the peak of a storm and 1/3 once the peak of the storm has passed by.
Are you planning a camping trip this summer? Do you spend time boating or waterskiing? Are you organizing an outdoor public event? Visit the Lightning in Canada website to find the latest lightning preparedness tips and how to stay safe.
Environment Canada issues Severe Thunderstorm Watches and Warnings when severe weather such as large hail, strong winds, heavy downpours, or even tornadoes are possible. When planning outdoor activities this summer, it is important to listen to weather forecasts, and to keep an eye on the sky as weather conditions can change quickly.
Please contact your regional Warning Preparedness Meteorologist if you have questions or need more information on Lightning Safety Week, on the Canadian Lightning Danger Map or Lightning in Canada.
Warning Preparedness Meteorologist: 1-866-672-5463
Lightning in Canada website: www.ec.gc.ca/foudre-lightning
Canadian Lightning Danger Maps: http://weather.gc.ca/lightning/index_e.html
Remember the lightning safety rule: When thunder roars, go indoors!
Fire Chief J. Caldbeck
Thetis Island Fire Dept.
