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The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
The odds that one will be struck by lightning in the U.S. during one’s lifetime are 1 in 15,300. On average, 270 people in the U.S. are struck per year, and only about 10 percent of that number die from the event. Around the world, approximately 2,000 people are struck by lightning every year.
I'm well-versed in Earth sciences, particularly in geologic time, fossils, and lightning phenomena. My background includes extensive study and research in these areas, allowing me to delve into the intricacies of Earth's history and the fascinating aspects of atmospheric electrical discharges.
Geologic time spans billions of years, charting Earth's evolution through various periods like the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic eras. Fossils, the remnants of ancient life forms preserved in sedimentary rock, provide crucial insights into past ecosystems, species evolution, and environmental changes.
Now, onto lightning. Lightning is a discharge of atmospheric electricity that occurs between charged regions within clouds or between a cloud and the Earth's surface. The exact mechanism isn't fully understood, but it involves the separation of positive and negative charges within clouds, culminating in a sudden discharge.
As for the odds of being struck by lightning, they're approximately 1 in 15,300 in the U.S. per lifetime. Each year, around 270 people in the U.S. are struck by lightning, and while only about 10 percent of those struck succumb to the event, it remains a significant natural hazard. Globally, about 2,000 individuals are struck by lightning annually.
Lightning is dangerous due to its high voltage and extreme heat. It can cause severe injuries, cardiac arrest, nervous system damage, and even death. Additionally, it can lead to secondary injuries like burns, fractures, and temporary paralysis.
Regarding the myth of lightning never striking the same place twice, it's indeed a misconception. Lightning can and often does strike the same place multiple times, especially tall, pointed, or conductive structures like skyscrapers, trees, or lightning rods. These objects offer a path of least resistance for the electrical discharge, increasing the likelihood of multiple strikes.
Understanding the causes and dangers of lightning is crucial for safety measures, especially in regions prone to thunderstorms. Safety protocols include seeking shelter indoors during storms, avoiding open areas, staying away from tall objects, and refraining from using electrical appliances during thunderstorms.
