for eMaxHealth
A woman who lives in Judsonia, Arkansas was hospitalized after a lightning strike on Wednesday, July 29, 2009.
It is reported that she was working at a fruit stand at the Thakerland Flea Market. She had her hand on a tent pole when lightning struck.
She was unconscious but alive when taken by ambulance to the White County Medical Center.
It is important to remember that lightning is the second deadliest weather phenomena. Summer is the peak season, but lightning strikes occur year around. An average of 62 people are killed each year by lightning in the United States. Many others are injured each year.
People who are survive lightning strikes may suffer from a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms, including memory loss, attention deficits, sleep disorders, numbness, dizziness, stiffness in joints, irritability, fatigue, weakness, muscle spasms, depression, and an inability to sit for long.
Lightning is a serious danger. Safety tips include:
Since lightning can strike from as far away as 10 miles, if you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance. Seek safe shelter immediately. When you are inside, avoid corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity.
Stay away from pools, indoor or outdoor, tubs, showers and other plumbing.
Related story
One Death, One Injury from Lightning Strike in Virginia
Sources
KATV News
A Lightning Safety site just for kids
NOAA's National Weather Service
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