Tuesday, June 24 is Lightning Safety Awareness Day

Tuesday, June 24, 2025 is Lightning Safety Awareness Day in Wisconsin.

Lightning is considered one of the biggest dangers thunderstorms bring as it’s unpredictable and gives no warning before it strikes.

Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle says “Lightning isn’t just a seasonal or regional threat. It can occur in any state, at any time of day, and in any season”.

According to the National Lightning Safety Council, 12 people were killed by lightning in the United States and its territories in 2024. At least three people have been killed by lightning strikes in the U.S. so far this year. Since 2006, there have been 10 lightning-related deaths in Wisconsin. The most recent lightning-related death reported in Wisconsin was in Minocqua in September of 2016.

The orginzation ReadyWisconsin recommends the following precautions to reduce the lightning risks:

Pay attention to the forecast for the area you will be in. If thunderstorms form, know where you can seek shelter.

Take immediate shelter indoors or inside a fully enclosed vehicle during storms. Get out of open areas and stay away from bodies of water, such as lakes or rivers. Never take cover under a tree.

If a person near you is struck by lightning, immediately dial 911. Start CPR if you are trained and certified. You Don’t need to be afraid to touch the victim – as the human body doesn’t hold an electrical charge after being struck.