How does a lightning strike cause injury?

American Red Cross

A lightning strike can throw a person through the air, burn off clothes, and cause the heart to stop beating. The most severe lightning strikes carry up to 50 million volts of electricity. This is enough electricity to light 13,000 homes.

Lightning can “flash” over a person’s body or it can travel through blood vessels and nerves to reach the ground.

Lightning injuries are serious and can be fatal. Being struck by lightning can cause cardiac and pulmonary arrest, neurological problems, blindness, deafness, burns, bone fractures, loss of hearing or eyesight, and trauma.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.