Severe Weather Preparedness Week (March 2–6, 2026): Protect Yourself from Lightning Strikes

During Illinois Severe Weather Preparedness Week, the Ford County Public Health Department urges residents to prioritize safety when thunderstorms approach. Lightning is a serious threat—it can strike up to 10 miles away from the storm, even when skies appear clear.

Your risk increases significantly if you stay outdoors during a thunderstorm. Recent lightning strikes have involved people engaged in everyday activities like:

• Golfing
• Boating
• Running
• Grilling
• Walking
• Construction work
• Gardening
• Swimming
• Riding (bikes/motorcycles)

Key Safety Rule: When thunder roars, go indoors! See a flash? Dash inside!

Seek safe shelter in a sturdy building or fully enclosed vehicle. Avoid open fields, tall trees, water, and metal objects. Stay inside for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.

Preparedness saves lives—review your family’s severe weather plan today. For more resources, visit weather.gov or contact us at (217) 379-9281.

Stay safe, Ford County! #SevereWeatherPreparedness #LightningSafety #FordCountyHealth

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