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National Lightning Safety Awareness Week just wrapped up last week, but its message remains vital as we head into peak lightning season. Lightning is one of nature’s deadliest weather hazards, and it is often underestimated.

Why it matters

• Over 700 people in the U.S. have lost their lives to lightning since 2001.
• Thanks to outreach efforts, annual lightning fatalities have dropped from 55 per year to around 20, but even one death is too many.
• Summer is lightning season - especially July - when outdoor activities and storms collide.

Did you know?

• Lightning can strike up to 10 miles from a storm.
• It is hotter than the surface of the sun.
• You do not have to see lightning to be in danger. If you hear thunder, go indoors.

Want to learn more?

Explore these resources from the National Lightening Safety Council:

• Interactive U.S. Lightning Fatalities Map (2006–2024)
• Lightning Safety Council Website
• Lightning Safety Talking Points

Education and awareness can save lives. Please share this information and practice safe behavior during storms, especially outdoors.

Together, we can help reduce lightning deaths and injuries on campus and beyond.

This message was brought to you by Georgia Gwinnett College's Environmental Health and Safety team.