Lightning Awareness By Gerry Schulte #18312 (June Owners News)

June 4, 2007 Page 1 of 4    1234

We are approaching the time of year again, when thunderstorms randomly threaten the skies. Some areas of the country typically have more frequent storms than others, but they can strike anywhere. Growing up in the Midwest, I rarely saw any rain without accompanying thunder and lightning. Having worked outdoors in construction most of my life, I am acutely aware of the power and danger of lightning, and give it great respect.

Our local motorcycling community in Hampton Roads, Virginia was tragically reminded two years ago, when Rick Moran, the service manager of our local dealership, Adventure BMW, was struck and killed by lightning while riding to a track day across the state. The best description for the weather that day was typical Virginia weather; white overcast sky with warm, humid unstable air. There was no rain, and in the county where he was struck, the weather service recorded only ten bolts of lightning all day.

Most people don't even think about lightning unless they are confronted with it head-on. My goal is to try to create a greater awareness in the larger BMW community, of the potential dangers we unknowingly put ourselves in, when we ride into a storm. This is not meant to seem alarmist. Fortunately, the amount of time most people are exposed to lightning is very small. By your actions during these times, you can drastically minimize, or tragically maximize, your risk of being struck. Knowledge is power. It could also save your life.

The following information was taken from various articles on the Web, regarding lightning awareness and safety, written by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) and the National Weather Service. National Lightning Safety Awareness Week is June 24th - 30th.