No, it is not safe to walk in a thunderstorm with an umbrella.
Using an umbrella during a thunderstorm significantly increases your risk of being struck by lightning. This is because of the metal components often found in umbrellas, which act as conductors for electricity.
Why Umbrellas are Dangerous in Thunderstorms:
- Metal Conductivity: Metal objects are excellent conductors of electricity. Lightning seeks the path of least resistance to the ground, and a metal umbrella can provide that path directly to you.
- Increased Height: Holding an umbrella increases your height, making you a more prominent target for lightning strikes.
- Other Metal Objects: It is also dangerous to be around other metal objects such as motorcycles, bicycles, golf clubs, golf buggies, fishing rods, and prams and pushchairs during a thunderstorm.
What to Do Instead:
The best approach when encountering a thunderstorm while outside is to seek shelter immediately.
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Seek indoor shelter in a building or car. | Use an umbrella. |
| Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder. | Seek shelter under trees or isolated structures. |
| Stay away from metal and water. | Use metal objects. |
Key Takeaway
Prioritizing your safety during a thunderstorm is crucial. Avoid using umbrellas and other metal objects, and seek safe, enclosed shelter immediately.
