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Florida has long been known as the lightning capital of the United States. In 2022, Polk County led the way in central Florida with 285 lightning strikes per square mile.
Lightning is a leading cause of storm-related injury and death. Lightning strikes can result in cardiac arrest. Only about 10% of people struck by lightning are killed but the remaining 90% are left with varying disabilities.
In addition to lightning and thunder, thunderstorms can feature winds over 50 mph, hail, flash flooding and tornadoes.
Here are the steps you can take to prepare for thunderstorms and lightning:
During a thunderstorm you can stay safe by:
Finally, once the storm passes, make sure it’s safe before going outside. Watch for flash flooding. Also, watch for downed power lines and trees. Report them immediately.
For more information on prepping for disasters, visit www.polk-county.net/emergency-management or go to Polk County Emergency Management’s social media accounts: