During development of thunderstorm, air current move upward, at the same time, water droplets move downwards. Hence there is rubbing action between them. Because of rubbing action, electric charges gets separated between them. Moreover, the positive positive charge gets get collected at the top of the cloud whereas negative charge gets collected at the bottom of the cloud. As soon as stored charge becomes very large, the ai between positive and negative charge is no longer to resist their flow. As a result positive charge and negative charge meet each other thereby producing the bright flash of light with sound. This causes lightning. Some time due to presence of negative charges at the bottom of cloud, there is induction of positive charges on the ground. If air becomes insufficient to resist the flow of charges, then lightning strikes on the ground

The process of meeting positive and negative charges producing bright light and sound is called electric discharge.

Safety measures from lightning during thunderstorm

During thunderstorm open vehicles like motorbikes, tractors, open cars are not safe. Similarly, open fields, tall trees, shelters in the park are dangerous. Avoid carrying umbrella during thunderstorm. Never take shelter below trees, stay away from poles and metal objects. Do not lie on the ground, this provides greater area for lightning to strike. Moreover you should sit with knees bent and heels closer to buttocks in squat position, later place your hands on your knees with head between the hand. In this way, you will become smallest target to be struck by lightning, thereby keeping you safe.

Safety measures during lightning

If person is inside house, then he/ she must stay away from telephone cords, electric wires, metal pipes as lightning can strike over them. One can use mobile phones or cordless phones but avoid contacting with person over telephone. Avoid bathing in thunderstorm and contact with running water. Moreover, unplug electrical appliances like computers, television, refrigerators, however one can keep electric lights on. For protection of buildings metallic rod is installed in walls at the time of construction. This rod is taller than the height of building. One end is kept in air whereas, other end is kept in ground. This rod provides easy path for charges towards the ground. Metal columns, electrical wires, water pipes do same hence, never touch them during thunderstorm.
Keywords: Safety measures during lightning, Electric discharge