Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012 -- Lightning occurs with ALL thunderstorms. An average 93 deaths and 300 injuries occur around the U.S. annually. An estimated 100,000 thunderstorms occur nationwide each year. The southeast Texas area averages 50 to 60 days with thunderstorms per year.

Lightning results from the buildup and discharge of electrical energy between positive and negatively charged areas. Most lightning deaths or injuries occur when people are on a golf course, near water, or standing under trees for shelter. The Gulf coast has the highest incidences of lightning strikes annually throughout the U.S.

If you are caught outside during a thunderstorm...
 

1. If you feel your hair stand on end it means lightning is about the strike. Squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Make yourself the smallest target and minimize contact with the ground.
2. Stay away from trees and other tall objects. If you are in the woods, find the shortest trees to seek shelter underneath.
3. Use the "30-30 Rule" while outside. The first 30 is the number of seconds between flash of lightning and the time you hear thunder. This means the lightning is approximately 6 miles away (30 seconds divided by 5 seconds a mile). The second 30 refers to the number of minutes after the last flash of lightning or a clap of thunder to establish an all-clear.

THURSDAY: National Weather Service forecasts and warnings.

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