Local from Columbia from Columbia on 7/19/2009 11:28:23 PM:
Get away from high ground and open fields. Also stay away from isolated trees. Lightning
generally strikes at the highest point. Go to a low-lying area, preferably a spot with brush
or scrub for cover. Avoid dry stream beds that might flood in a storm, and steer clear of
water, tall trees, and anything metal-wires, fences, pipes, etc. Metal acts like a conduit for
lightning strikes, so puts you at risk. Make yourself small. Crouch down with your feet
together, so you contact as little ground as possible. (Don't lie down. If lightning strikes
nearby, you'll get a jolt through the ground.)
Another old trick is count the seconds between the thunder clap and the lightning. This is
a method to tell whether the storm is getting closer or moving away. Thunder clap quick
flash take cover! Lightning usually occurs ahead of the rain. Hope that helps! Stay safe! :)