Rainstorms may bring cooler temperatures and relief from the heat, but they also pose serious dangers, especially from lightning strikes.
Every year, several people lose their lives or suffer injuries during thunderstorms, often while carrying out normal daily activities.
In March 2026, reports emerged that a 25-year-old mason apprentice in Kadjebi in the Oti Region was struck and killed by lightning during a rainstorm while reportedly making a phone call.
Across many African communities, children often enjoy playing in the rain, but parents and guardians are being urged to pay close attention during storms.
Lightning can strike unexpectedly, making it important to educate children and adults on safety precautions during rainfall.
Here are 10 common activities that can increase the risk of lightning strikes during a thunderstorm and why they should be avoided.
1. Standing Under Trees
Trees are among the most common objects struck by lightning. Taking shelter under a tree during heavy rain can be extremely dangerous because lightning can travel through the tree and affect anyone standing nearby.
2. Using Metal Umbrellas
Metal is a good conductor of electricity. Carrying a metal umbrella during a thunderstorm may increase your chances of being affected by lightning.
3. Swimming or Staying in Water
Water conducts electricity very easily. Swimming, boating, standing in puddles, or even taking a bath or shower during a thunderstorm can be risky because electrical currents may travel through water pipes and surrounding surfaces.
4. Playing Outdoor Sports
Activities such as football, jogging, or training in open fields expose people to lightning strikes. Experts advise that all outdoor sports and activities should stop immediately once thunder is heard.
5. Riding Bicycles or Motorcycles
Bicycles and motorcycles provide little protection during storms. Being exposed outdoors and elevated above the ground can increase the risk of lightning strikes.
6. Using Electronics Outdoors
Using phones, laptops, or electrical devices outside during a thunderstorm can be dangerous, especially when devices are plugged into power sources or connected to metallic objects. People are also advised to unplug electrical appliances during storms to avoid damage.
7. Working on Roofs or Construction Sites
Construction workers, roofers, and people using ladders or scaffolding face greater danger during thunderstorms because lightning tends to strike elevated objects.
8. Making Phone Calls Outdoors During Storms
Using a mobile phone outdoors during heavy rain or thunderstorms may expose individuals to danger mainly because they remain outside in unsafe conditions.
While mobile phones themselves do not attract lightning, being in open spaces during a storm increases the risk.
Corded landline phones indoors can also be hazardous because lightning can travel through telephone lines.
9. Driving Open Vehicles
Convertibles and other open vehicles offer less protection during thunderstorms compared to fully enclosed vehicles. Lightning can directly affect exposed areas.
10. Ignoring Weather Warnings
Staying outdoors despite thunder, lightning, dark clouds, or official weather alerts significantly increases the risk of injury. Seeking shelter immediately is the safest option during a storm.
Lightning is unpredictable and can strike without warning, even when conditions appear calm. Avoiding dangerous activities during rainstorms, staying indoors, and keeping away from water, metal objects, and open spaces are some of the best ways to stay safe during thunderstorms.