Lightning safety in Singapore

The local numbers

Changi Climate Station averages many thunder days a year, peaking at 20 in April and 19 in May and November. Lightning days peak in November (22). Cloud-to-ground flashes are the ones that injure people. Intra-cloud flashes are more common but still mean the storm can produce a ground strike next.

The 30/30 rule

• If thunder follows lightning by 30 seconds or less, the storm is close. Get inside a substantial building or a hard-topped vehicle.
• Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back out. Most "it has passed" injuries happen in this window.

Bad shelter

• Bus stops, gazebos, isolated trees, umbrella, bicycle.
• Open fields, reservoirs, golf courses, rooftop gardens.
• Water: get off the sea and out of pools.

A closed car is good because of the metal shell, not the rubber tyres. Do not lean on the metal once you are inside.

Questions