5 Things You Should Never Do During a Louisiana Thunderstorm

LOUISIANA - If there's one thing we know about in Louisiana, it's severe weather. From hurricanes to thunderstorms, it just comes with the territory.

One minute, it's hot and sunny. The next, the sky turns dark, the wind starts picking up, and thunder is rattling the windows.

When that happens, most people know enough to get inside. But simply being indoors doesn't mean you should completely forget about lightning safety.

Here are five things you should never do during a thunderstorm.

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Don't Take A Shower Or Bath

If there is lightning nearby, experts recommend avoiding showers, baths, washing dishes, and other activities involving running water. Lightning can travel through your home's plumbing, creating a potential danger inside the home.

Even if your home has plastic pipes, experts say it is still best to wait until the thunderstorm has passed before jumping in the shower or washing dirty dishes.

Stay Away From Plugged-In Electronics

During an active lightning storm, avoid using electronics and appliances connected directly to an electrical outlet.

This includes things like computers, gaming systems, washers, dryers, and other plugged-in devices. Lightning can travel through electrical systems and wiring, which is why experts recommend limiting contact with electrical equipment during a storm.

READ MORE: What Is Corn Sweat? Why It Can Make Louisiana Feel Hotter

lightning in lafayette louisiana

Don't Use A Corded Phone

Although not too many homes have landlines these days, there are still plenty of businesses that still have traditional corded telephones, and these should not be used during a thunderstorm.

Lightning can travel through telephone lines and wiring, creating a risk for anyone using a corded phone.

Cell phones and cordless phones are considered safer options during a storm, provided they aren't connected to a wall outlet.

Stay Out Of The Pool, Lake, Or Bayou

In Louisiana, water is everywhere.

Whether you're swimming in a backyard pool, fishing at the camp, hanging out at the lake, or spending the day at Cypremort Point, get out of the water immediately when you hear thunder.

Water and electricity are obviously a dangerous combination.

READ MORE: How to Cut Wet Grass Without Destroying Your Yard

There is no safe place to swim during a lightning storm, and staying on a boat or near open water can also put you at risk.

Don't Stay In An Open Field

This is another important one in Louisiana.

Football practice, baseball games, fishing trips, hunting camps, festivals, and backyard gatherings can all be interrupted by fast-moving storms.

If lightning is nearby, don't stand in an open field and don't take shelter under an isolated tree. Open spaces can leave you exposed, while tall objects like trees can also become dangerous during lightning storms.

During an active storm, it's smart to avoid:

Showers, baths, sinks, and other plumbing
Plugged-in electrical equipment
Corded telephones
Windows and exterior doors
Concrete floors and walls
Porches, balconies, and open garages