Yes, lightning can hit underwater.
While it's true that water conducts electricity, the vast majority of the electrical discharge from a lightning strike occurs near the surface. This means that the strength of the current diminishes rapidly as you move deeper into the water.
Lightning and Water: What Happens?
- Surface Charge: When lightning strikes water, it discharges a tremendous amount of electrical energy. This energy spreads out across the surface of the water.
- Decreasing Current: The electric current density decreases exponentially with depth. This means that the danger is significantly greater closer to the surface and the point of impact.
- Conductivity Differences: Saltwater is a better conductor of electricity than freshwater. Therefore, lightning's effects might spread out more in saltwater, but the decrease in current density with depth still applies.
Is It Safe to Be in the Water During a Thunderstorm?
- Highly Dangerous: Swimming or boating during a thunderstorm is extremely dangerous. Even though the electrical current decreases with depth, a nearby lightning strike can still be fatal.
- Distance Matters: The closer you are to the point where lightning strikes, the greater the risk.
- Seek Shelter: The best course of action is to get out of the water and seek shelter indoors or in a hard-topped vehicle.
Fish and Marine Life
- Generally Unaffected: Most fish and other marine life are generally unaffected by lightning strikes because they typically swim below the surface where the current is much weaker.
- Surface Dwellers at Risk: However, marine life that lives closer to the surface is more vulnerable.
In summary, while lightning can strike underwater, the danger is concentrated near the surface. It is crucial to avoid being in the water during a thunderstorm to minimize the risk of injury or death.
