When lightning strikes water, it doesn't penetrate deeply but spreads out rapidly across the surface.
While lightning strikes the ocean less frequently than land, when it does occur, the water acts as a conductor, allowing the massive electrical current to disperse horizontally rather than penetrating deep into the volume of water.
This lateral spread has several significant effects:
- Surface Electrification: The surface area around the strike point becomes highly energized.
- Risk to Nearby Objects: Boats or other objects located on the water near the strike zone are at risk of being hit.
- Impact on Marine Life: Fish and other marine animals near the surface can be electrocuted due to the electrical charge spreading out. The effects lessen with depth and distance from the strike point.
- Danger to Swimmers: It is extremely dangerous to be in the water during a thunderstorm. As recommended by NOAA's Ocean Today, if you are at the beach and hear thunder or see lightning, you should get out of the water immediately.
Here's a summary of the key effects:
| Effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Spread | Electricity spreads rapidly across the water's surface. |
| Conduction | Water acts as a conductor, facilitating the spread. |
| Risk to Boats | Boats nearby the strike point are vulnerable. |
| Impact on Fish | Fish near the surface can be electrocuted. |
| Danger to Swimmers | People in the water are at severe risk and should exit immediately. |
Understanding these effects highlights the importance of seeking safe shelter during electrical storms, whether you are on land or on the water.
