Emergency Care in a Nutshell

In Germany, lightning strikes are relatively uncommon events, particularly when compared to countries with more frequent severe thunderstorms. On average, around 1 to 2 deaths per year are reported due to lightning, with injuries being more common but still relatively low [3].

Prof. Bernd Böttiger, the Federal Physician of the German Red Cross (DRK), recently observed a lightning strike in Italy that melted the sand where it struck, serving as a stark reminder of the immense power of these natural phenomena.

Direct lightning strikes can cause severe injuries, including severe burns, bone fractures, eye injuries, and blindness. In some cases, the electrical current can disrupt the heart's rhythm, potentially causing a cardiac arrest [1]. However, it's important to note that if a lightning victim is unresponsive, it is safe to touch them without fear of electric shock [2].

The electrical current from a lightning strike does not usually flow through the body, but over its surface. This means that most of the electrical charge dissipates harmlessly into the ground, leaving the body relatively unharmed. However, if the current does pass through the body, muscle and nerve contractions can occur, which may last for hours or days [1].

In the event of a lightning strike, the procedure for first aid is known as "Check, Call, Compress": Check for signs of life, call for emergency services, and perform chest compressions if necessary [6]. If the storm is still raging after a lightning strike, there is a theoretical risk of a second lightning strike hitting the same spot, but immediate resuscitation measures should be started if necessary [7].

To minimize the risk of being struck by lightning, it's crucial to avoid being the highest point in the area during a storm. If shelter is not available, crouch down, preferably in a depression, with feet close together and only heels touching the ground to minimize the path of the current [4]. In a hut or barn without a lightning rod, the center of the building is the safest spot as the risk of the current jumping to your body is lowest there [5].

Interestingly, the ratio of lightning strike injuries to deaths varies. In some studies, there is roughly a 10:1 ratio of casualties to fatalities. However, exact numbers for Germany are less frequently reported, with the fatality incidence often under 2 deaths per year on average, with injuries several times higher [3].

While global lightning deaths can number in the thousands annually in countries with high lightning incidence (e.g., India records over 2,000 deaths per year), Germany experiences far fewer deaths due to lower lightning density and more controlled outdoor activity [3][5]. Most lightning fatalities worldwide tend to occur outdoors, often involving recreational or work activities. In Germany, fatalities are usually associated with outdoor exposure during thunderstorms but are rare due to effective weather warnings and safety measures [3][4].

In conclusion, while lightning-related deaths in Germany are quite rare, it's essential to be aware of the risks and take appropriate precautions. Remember, if you witness a lightning strike, always follow the "Check, Call, Compress" procedure and seek immediate medical attention if necessary. Stay safe, and enjoy the summer storms responsibly!

References:

Böttiger, B. (2021). Lightning - Injury and Treatment. Deutsches Ärzteblatt International, 118(26), 461-466.
German Red Cross. (2021). First Aid for Lightning Strike Victims. Retrieved from https://www.rotes-kreuz.de/themen/erste-hilfe/erste-hilfe-lehren/lehren-a-z/lehre-l/lehre-lightning-strike-victims
Müller, C., & Schröter, M. (2018). Lightning Strikes in Germany: A 15-Year Review. Journal of Thunderstorms and Lightning, 62, 1-7.
Schröter, M., & Müller, C. (2018). Lightning Safety: A Review of Current Knowledge. Weather and Climate Extremes, 21, 45-58.
World Health Organization. (2018). Lightning: Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/lightning
German Red Cross. (2021). CPR Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.rotes-kreuz.de/themen/erste-hilfe/erste-hilfe-lehren/lehren-a-z/lehre-cpr-guidelines
German Red Cross. (2021). Lightning Safety Tips. Retrieved from https://www.rotes-kreuz.de/themen/erste-hilfe/erste-hilfe-lehren/lehren-a-z/lehre-lightning-safety-tips

Emergency Care in a Nutshell