This afternoon I received the final stats. on the lightning fatalities in 2008. They give the breakdown of who, where, and how, people were killed by lightning. The average number of lightning fatalities is 62 deaths per year.
In 2008, however, there were 28 killed by lightning. Of those:
79% were male.
36% were ages 20-29 years
25% were ages 10-19 years
36% were undertrees
36% were near water
14% were just outside a house
Lightning deaths occured in 19 states. Florida and Colorado lead the nation with 4 fatalities.
As you might have imagined, the most frequent days for lightning deaths were the
weekend. In 2008 21% of the fatalities were on Saturday and 21% were on Sunday.
The deadlies month for lightning was July with 14 killed followed by June with 9 deaths.
You might wonder about the 79% male statistic, but this is pretty normal. When I do
public speaking to schools or civic groups I often mention that males are much more
likely to be struck by lightning. I usually ask the audience why? I've heard many
interesting answers but the reality is, more men are outside. Perhaps most women have
the good sense to go inside, but men out golfing, fishing, bike riding, and camping make up the bulk of those killed.
If you can hear thunder you are close enough to be struck by lighting. Do not mess with lighting. If you are out and hear thunder stop whatever you are doing and go inside. No matter how good you golf game is going or how well the fish are biting.
Lets hope we can have an even lower number for 2009.
Dan