Is It Safe to Drive During Thunderstorms?
2 Answers
Driving during thunderstorms is generally safe inside the car, but there are precautions to take: 1. Close all windows to make the vehicle a sealed unit; 2. Turn off the radio, GPS, car phone, and other electronic devices, and retract their antennas, as antennas are conductors and their tips have a higher charge density, making them more likely to attract lightning; 3. Stay inside the car to avoid the rain and do not get out or walk around—if lightning strikes the car, walking nearby could expose you to ground-conducted current; 4. Reduce your driving speed—if lightning causes the car to lose control, slower speeds can minimize danger; 5. If you encounter standing water, you can deliberately wet the wheels; 6. Do not park under tall trees in open fields during thunderstorms.
Driving during a thunderstorm carries certain risks and requires extra caution. I remember once encountering a severe thunderstorm while driving, with intense lightning and thunder, and rain so heavy that the road was barely visible. The car was swaying in the wind. Although the vehicle itself is made of metal—and if struck by lightning, the current usually flows through the body to the ground without harming the occupants—the biggest hazards are reduced visibility and slippery roads. Additionally, strong winds can knock down tree branches or billboards, increasing the risk of accidents. With years of driving experience, I’ve learned that during frequent lightning, it’s best to find a safe place to stop and wait out the storm, such as a gas station or rest area. Don’t rush; safety comes first. Keep your speed low, turn on headlights for better visibility, and close windows to avoid electric shocks. Wait until the storm passes before continuing—taking extra time is far better than taking unnecessary risks.
