Lightning Facts To Remember 1. Each year, about 400 in the U.S. are struck by lightning while playing golf, working outside, at sports events, on the beach, mountain climbing, mowing the lawn or during other outdoor activities.
Full Answer
How many golfers have been struck by lightning during tournaments?
Lightning has struck during professional golf tournaments many times, most infamously at the 1975 Western Open. It was there that Lee Trevino, Jerry Heard and Bobby Nichols were struck by lightning, knocked unconscious.
How far away should a golf course be from a lightning strike?
Ten miles is ideal just to be safe. Check the courses policy on lightning and if they have a lightning detection/prediction system. Many golf courses are now equipped with a lightning detection system that sets off a horn when lightning gets within a certain set distance from the course.
Can a golf course be liable for lightning-related injuries?
Maussner appealed to a higher court. The Superior Court of New Jersey said injuries through acts of God don’t exempt courses from liability. When a golf course takes steps to protect players from lightning strikes, it must implement safety precautions properly.
What to do if there is lightning on the golf course?
Golf Safety warning – for golfers everywhere. Golf and lightning don’t mix. Be careful when you are on the course & do not try to beat the lightning! When the horn sounds, come in immediately !
What is the 30 30 lightning rule?
Don't forget the 30-30 rule. After you see lightning, start counting to 30. If you hear thunder before you reach 30, go indoors. Suspend activities for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder. If you are caught in an open area, act quickly to find adequate shelter.
Do golfers get struck by lightning?
From 2006 through 2019, 418 people were struck and killed by lightning in the United States. Almost two thirds of the deaths occurred to people who had been enjoying outdoor leisure activities. The common belief that golfers are responsible for the greatest number of lightning deaths was shown to be a myth.
Do golf clubs attract lightning?
Jensenius said golf clubs and other metal objects do not attract lightning and that getting in the cart would not protect you.
Will a golf cart protect you from lightning?
The following is helpful information for you to consider from the National Weather Service: "If a substantial building is not available, enclosed motor vehicles can provide shelter as long as patrons do not touch the metal framework during the thunderstorm (golf carts are not safe vehicles).
What to do if there is lightning on a golf course?
Golf and Frisbee Golf are the only sports with regulations relating to lightning. A good rule for everyone is: "If you can see it (lightning), flee it; if you can hear it (thunder), clear it."
Does rebar attract lightning?
MYTH #3: Metal attracts lightning. This too is a myth. Metal objects are no more likely to be hit by lightning than any other object. Lightning hits anything in its path. Metal structures are, however, less likely to be damaged by lightning.
Can lightning go through a metal roof?
Lightning strikes on metal roofs are an understandable concern for homeowners considering an upgrade to a metal roof. Extensive research on lightning protection reveals that metal roofing is no more likely to attract a lightning strike than any other type of conventional roofing material.
Where does lightning strike the most?
Lake MaracaiboThe most lightning-struck location in the world Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela is the place on Earth that receives the most lightning strikes. Massive thunderstorms occur on 140-160 nights per year with an average of 28 lightning strikes per minute lasting up to 10 hours at a time.