Is It Safer to Stay in Water or on Land During a Lightning Strike at the Beach?

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During a lightning storm at the beach, staying on dry sand is safer than being in the water, as water significantly increases conductivity and the risk of electric shock. Laying flat on the ground or squatting with feet together can help minimize the risk of being struck. Lightning can strike nearby, and there are only a few seconds of warning before a strike occurs, often indicated by a fizzing sound and hair standing on end. While some believe that minimizing contact with the ground may help, it is generally advised to avoid being the tallest object in the area. Ultimately, the best course of action during a lightning storm is to seek shelter and avoid open areas.
  • #31
Getting into a car seems like a good idea.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZxgYNnkBd0
 
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  • #32
I heard somewhere that if you are deep enough underwater, you will not be harmed by a lightning strike, and will just hear a loud bang. Is this true? If it is, and you were scuba diving, would it be best to swim further down or head to the beach?
 

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