here’s something both calming and thrilling about the sound of thunder rolling in the distance while rain pours down. It might be tempting to step into a warm shower to enjoy the ambiance. But, is it okay to shower during a thunderstorm? As an age-old question that has puzzled many, we’ll dive into the heart of the matter in this article.
The Myth and The Reality
For generations, parents and grandparents have warned about the risks of bathing during thunderstorms. But, is there any truth to this cautionary tale? Surprisingly, there might be more science to these warnings than you’d expect.
The Science Behind The Risk
The main concern about showering during a thunderstorm is the possibility of a lightning strike hitting your home, and subsequently, the water pipes. Water, especially water containing impurities and minerals – which is typically the case with home water supplies – is an excellent conductor of electricity. If lightning strikes your home or nearby, and the electrical discharge gets into the plumbing, there is a risk while you’re showering.
However, it’s essential to put this into context. The chances of this occurring are extremely low, especially with modern plumbing systems.
Modern Plumbing and The Reduced Risk
Today, most plumbing systems have plastic pipes, which are poor conductors of electricity. This significantly reduces the risk of lightning’s electrical discharge reaching you in the shower. However, metal pipes are still common in many older homes, which could conduct electricity if a lightning strike were to hit.
What Do Experts Say?
The National Weather Service advises against showering during a thunderstorm. Can you get electrocuted in the shower during a thunderstorm? While the probability might be low, the potential consequences are severe, making it a risk not worth taking.
While a comforting shower during a thunderstorm may sound inviting, safety should always come first. This advice extends to any activities that put you in direct contact with running water in your home, like washing dishes or doing laundry.
Safety Tips During Thunderstorms
- Avoid Contact with Water: Do not shower, bathe, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm.
- Stay Away from Windows and Doors: Lightning can travel through the small openings or cracks around these areas.
- Avoid Electronic Equipment: Do not use corded phones, computers, and other electrical equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity.
- Stay Indoors: If you can hear thunder, you are within range of a possible lightning strike.
- Unplug Appliances: Protect your electronics by unplugging them before the storm hits.
Is It Okay To Shower During A Thunderstorm? The Verdict
The answer to “Is it okay to shower during a thunderstorm?” is technically yes, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. While the odds of lightning striking your home and traveling into your plumbing are quite low, especially with modern plumbing, the consequences could be severe.
Remember, a thunderstorm is temporary, but your safety is paramount. Waiting to shower until the storm has passed is a minor inconvenience compared to the potential risk.
The next time you find yourself contemplating a shower as the thunder rolls in, it might be a good idea to find another way to relax instead. Consider cozying up with a good book or watching the storm from a safe distance until it passes. Remember, it’s always better to prioritize safety when it comes to thunderstorms and lightning.