Is it safe to drive in thunder and lightning?

When driving in extreme weather conditions, you need to be extra careful.

Whether you’re slowing down or planning your trip, here are some tips to stay safe while driving in inclement weather.

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Is driving safe during a thunderstorm?

Driving in extreme weather conditions is not a good idea.

When driving in a thunderstorm, there is a risk of sudden gusty winds and heavy rain.

Some vehicles in particular are most at risk, for example cyclists, motorcyclists and vehicles with high sides.

Weather conditions may make driving more dangerous due to hazards such as possible flooded or muddy roads or roads blocked by debris.

If you are caught in a storm or thunderstorm while you are driving, the weather office advises you to roll up the windows and stay in your car.

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It’s also important to keep your speed low in wet and windy conditions, as reducing your speed will shorten the distance you can travel as you’re being pushed around by the wind.

Heavy rain limits your visibility, so windshield wipers and headlights are a must.

Make sure you do not drive too close to other road users as it is more difficult to slow down and stop in these conditions.

In extreme conditions, it is recommended to safely pull over to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights, turn off the engine, put your hands on your lap and wait out the storm.

Is it safe to sit in a car during a thunderstorm?

Some people are under the impression that the type of rubber in a car means they are safe.

However, this is not correct.

You’re actually safe in a car because the lightning circles the surface of the vehicle and then hits the ground.

What happens if a car is struck by lightning?

Most cars have a metal roof and frame.

This means the frame acts as a conductive Faraday cage, directing electricity around the passengers and on to the ground.

But that doesn’t mean that a lightning strike can’t cause both internal and external damage.

What is a Faraday cage?

A Faraday cage is a metal cage that shields objects inside when they are exposed to a high potential discharge, such as a battery. B. struck by lightning.

Michael Faraday, a British physicist, developed the concept after discovering that a metal cage would act as a good conductor to conduct electricity around objects and drain it safely to earth.

This method of shielding is often used today.