Lightning strikes

Photo: WAHID ADNAN / DRIKNEWS

Lightning strikes can produce severe injuries, and have a mortality rate of between 10 and 30%, with up to 80% of survivors sustaining long-term injuries. An estimated 24,000 people are killed by lightning around the world each year and about 240,000 are injured.
Generally the specialists advise everyone to have a plan for their safety when a thunderstorm occurs. This is important, since lightning can strike without rain actually falling. If thunder can be heard at all, then there is a risk of lightning. The safest place is inside a building or a vehicle. Risk remains for up to 30 minutes after the last observed lightning or thunder. Lightning can affect the brainstem which controls breathing. If a victim appears lifeless, it is important to begin artificial resuscitation immediately to prevent death by suffocation.