Can You Refuel a Car During a Thunderstorm?
2 Answers
Refueling during a thunderstorm is not recommended because lightning can generate charged particles in the air, which may lead to fires or explosions. Here are the relevant details: Specific reasons: During thunderstorms, lightning strikes ionize the air, dispersing a large number of charged particles. If you refuel your vehicle during a thunderstorm, the fuel nozzle can easily introduce stray currents into the fuel tank, potentially causing a fire. Flammable fuel vapors can also disperse into the surrounding air, and if struck by lightning, both the vehicle and the fuel tank could explode. Safety precautions during thunderstorms: Close all windows and doors to prevent ball lightning from entering and causing harm. Avoid watching TV or using the internet, and unplug telephone lines, TV antennas, and all other electrical devices that could conduct lightning indoors, such as sound systems and air conditioners.
That day when it was raining heavily and thundering, I happened to need to refuel, so I drove to the gas station. Suddenly, with thunder rumbling, a lightning bolt streaked across the sky, and the gas station attendant rushed over shouting to stop refueling, turn off the engine immediately, and take shelter in the car. Only then did I realize how dangerous it was—lightning could ignite fuel vapors, leading to an explosion or fire. Since then, I’ve developed a habit of checking the weather forecast before heading out. If thunderstorms are predicted, I either refuel in advance or wait until the weather improves. In fact, the powerful current from lightning can easily conduct through the fuel nozzle or static electricity from the human body, especially since gasoline vapors are highly dense—just a tiny spark can cause disaster. Now, I keep a small umbrella in my car for rain protection and safer refueling. In short, refueling during a thunderstorm is truly unwise—life is more important than anything else.
