NC among top states for lightning-related deaths: How to stay safe during peak storm season

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) – Lightning strikes cause the deaths of nearly 20 people in the U.S. every year with hundreds more severely injured, the National Weather Service reports.

The summer months mark a busy time as peak lightning season, particularly from June through August. So far in 2025,

lightning has killed four people, including a K-9 officer in eastern North Carolina who was hit while fishing back in mid-April. This is the 23rd lightning fatality reported statewide since 2006.

In fact, the National Lightning Safety Council recently published a new study, listing North Carolina among the top five states for the most lightning-related deaths from 2015 through 2024. During this period, 11 deaths were reported in total across the state, only sitting behind Florida, Texas and Alabama.

According to data from the National Lightning Safety Council, the odds of being hit by lightning include:

• One in 1.7 million each year.
• One in 21,400 over a lifetime span of 80 years.

Although the chances of getting struck are fairly slim, it’s still not impossible. So, what can you do to stay safe from summer storms?

As many look to get outside during this time of year, safety is key. It’s also important to remember: “When thunder roars, go indoors.”

When a thunderstorm is nearby, people are not safe outside, so it’s imperative to seek shelter in a car or building.

But for those who are caught outside in a storm, they should crouch low to the ground with their feet together and head down.

After finding a safe place to lie low, it’s essential to avoid electrical equipment, plumbing, windows and doors. Meanwhile, anyone still outdoors needs to stay away from open areas, tall objects (trees, poles, antennas) and water.

In nearby South Carolina, a reported lightning strike injured 20 people swimming in a lake this past week. All are expected to recover, but fire officials say the strike happened on a bright and sunny day, striking and energizing a metal cable with buoys.

Twelve lightning-related deaths were reported last year throughout seven states.

If a storm is nearby, please stay indoors and wait 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.