A police car in Newcastle, Oklahoma sustained damage after being struck by lightning during severe storms on Monday, a dramatic moment that was captured on video. Newcastle Emergency Management shared the incident on Facebook, noting the fortunate circumstance that no one was injured in the event, emphasizing how quickly a situation can become dangerous.
The storms that swept through central U.S. regions, including Oklahoma, were significant, characterized by intense lightning, strong winds, and even tornadoes. Meteorologist Marissa Torres from FOX Weather highlighted the unpredictability of lightning strikes, pointing to the video as a sobering reminder of these dangers.
During storms, being inside a vehicle can actually provide safety; cars serve as a Faraday cage, protecting occupants from lightning. Meteorologist Stephen Morgan explained this phenomenon, reassuring that vehicles act as a grounded space during electrical storms.
In light of the dangers posed by lightning, the National Weather Service reminds the public of safety slogans such as “When thunder roars, go indoors” and “See a flash, dash inside.” On average, there are about 20 lightning-related fatalities in the U.S. each year, underscoring the importance of awareness during storm events.
This incident serves as a powerful reminder of natural hazards and the need for precaution during severe weather conditions, encouraging people to seek safety indoors when storms strike.