Missouri and Kansas among top states for lightning deaths
WEBB CITY, Mo. — This is National 'Severe Weather Preparedness Week,' and today's topic is lightning.
According to the National Weather Service, Missouri and Kansas both rank in the top 20 states for lightning fatalities from 2010 through 2019, with Arkansas ranking in the top 10.
First responders say when lightning is in the forecast, avoid unsafe places like the top of a hill.
You'll also want to avoid tall, isolated trees or other tall objects.
And if you see lightning in the distance, it's time to go inside.
The National Weather Service says there are several myths surrounding lightning, like that it doesn't strike the same place twice.
In fact, it often does, with the Empire State Building being struck an average of 23 times a year.
'You never know when it's going to strike, but if you're seeing it in the distance, it's time to start moving in then, not wait until you see it get closer, because if it gets closer there's a good chance that you could be struck,' said Chief Andrew Roughton, Webb City Fire Department.
You can learn more about lightning myths here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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