Can lightning travel through plumbing? Here’s how to stay safe as storms strike Sacramento

Lightning flashed and thunder roared as a recent storm dumped nearly three-quarters of an inch of rain over the Sacramento area.

The loud thunderstorm woke up several Sacramento residents early Monday morning.

Sacramento resident Jenny Davidson wrote on social media that the thunder “scared me to death,” and another local, Kevin Fippin, called the thunderclaps “absolutely the loudest thunder I’ve ever heard in my life.”

According to the National Weather Service, downtown Sacramento received 0.6 inches of rain between 8 a.m. Sunday and 8 a.m. Monday, with areas around the capital city reporting more.

Old Foothill Farms received 0.69 inches of rainfall, the agency said, while Roseville reported 0.68 inches.

The weather service said more precipitation is in the forecast as a low-pressure system makes its way through the region.

By 4 a.m. Thursday, there’s nearly a 100% chance at least an inch of rain will fall across the Sacramento area, the agency said, and there’s a 35% chance of seeing at least 3 inches of rain.

Areas that see thunderstorms will likely experience heavier rain over a short period.

Rain is also expected Monday and Tuesday, the weather service said.

Here’s how to stay safe when lightning strikes

When thunder rumbles, lightning isn’t far behind.

About 25 million times a year, lightning strikes the United States, according to the National Weather Service. Approximately 300 people per year are hit, and of those about 30 will die — many others are severely injured.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the chance of getting struck by lightning is about 1 in 500,000. Safety measures are invaluable in keeping you protected.

The weather service warns that no place outside is safe if you hear thunder — so go immediately inside. Once there, you must still be mindful of your surroundings and the present storm.

Here are a few tips to keep you safe when lightning strikes:

Is it dangerous to shower in a thunderstorm? And more

First thing, the CDC says, is to “be prepared.”

Check the weather before planning outdoor activities and ensure shelter is nearby. Once indoors, stay off corded phones (cellphones and cordless are OK), do not use computers or electronic equipment and stay away from plumbing, windows and doors.

Avoid leaning on concrete walls, the CDC said.

You should stay out of the shower (or bath) — and leave the dishes for later. The CDC warns people to stay away from plumbing if you’re indoors during the storm.

“Lightning can travel through plumbing,” the CDC said. “It is best to avoid all water during a lightning storm. Do not shower, bathe, wash dishes, or wash your hands.”

The weather service also highlights that lightning “will travel through the wiring and plumbing if your building is struck.”

If you are outside when the storm hits, “do not lie on the ground or seek shelter under a tree.” Leave elevated areas and stay away from water and other conductors.

Also: Do not seek shelter under a cliff or rocky overhang.

The best option for shelter is a fully enclosed building with wiring and plumbing (though remember, avoid using it during the storm). The weather service also says hard-topped metal vehicles are safe. Stay off of porches and balconies and do not return outside until 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder.

Find additional safety tips from the CDC here. The latest weather and warnings from the National Weather Service in Sacramento can be found here.

The lightning safety information in this story was originally published on kansascity.com on May 14, 2021.