On the road in a lightning storm: What you should do

It’s true that people are often safe inside a car during a lightning storm, but the reason for that is dangerously misunderstood.

All-metal cars (not convertibles) can provide protection. This is because of the Faraday Cage effect: Electricity is directed throughout the metal exterior, instead of inside the vehicle. The charge then exits to the ground.

This isn’t because of the car’s rubber wheels. In fact, there are important limitations to the protection inside a metal car.

Don’t touch metal objects in the car. According to weather.com, some current can travel through the electrical systems, including radios, cell phone chargers, GPS units, foot pedals, door handles and the steering wheel.

If a lightning strike disables the car’s electrical systems, the air bag can deploy. Lightning can also spark fires in the car’s electrical system.

Best advice: Shelter in a substantial building – not in your car. If this isn’t possible, pull the car over, turn on the emergency lights and put your hands in your lap. Windows should be up.