Lightening strikes on trailers?

[Cosmo]

I was camped out 2 weeks ago when a roaring electrical storm came through. Lightening was striking all over the campground with instant thunder explosions. There was a biblical down pour that flooded the field with about an inch of water (I had a new appreciation for being off the ground). The poor tent’er camping near me packed up and left as soon as the rain stopped (4AM).

I really loved the excitement and regret not taking some video of the lightening. But I did start to wonder about lightening striking my trailer (aluminum skin).

Is anyone aware of any first had reports of lightening striking a teardrop or other trailer and any idea on how the occupants faired? (before I start scanning obituaries)

Thanks in advance
-Cosmo

[MtnDon]

I would not worry about it; if I did I'd never go outside. But if caught in a thunder storm inside the trailer, not touching any metal parts connected to the skin / frame, is your safest place.

A metal skinned trailer or hard metal topped vehicle will, should, keep the lightning outside. The metal skin protects you. But you should not be touching the metal skin.

http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-n ... g/17283636

http://lightningsafety.com/nlsi_pls/vehicle_strike.html

[Cosmo]

Thanks Don,

When the trailer wench starts worrying again, I will comfort her by nervously pontificating about the Faraday cage, and how we should enjoy our crucial role in the research!

-Cosmo

[mustangcats]

In a severe thunderstorm, I think I would be more concerned about strong winds knocking over the trailer or a tree crashing down on top of the trailer.

[lrrowe]

In a severe thunderstorm, I think I would be more concerned about strong winds knocking over the trailer or a tree crashing down on top of the trailer.

I worry about trees when in the NF.

[steve cowan]

Was driving down a tree lined country road once and lightning hit a tree nearby then my truck.It blew the sidewall out of a new tire!

[mustangcats]

A lady at work was driving her car in a storm when it was hit by lightning. It popped all 4 tires, activated the air bags and fried all the electronics in the car. The car was a total loss. It doesn't happen very often...but she's living proof that it can happen.

[MtnDon]

Same as with a car with a fabric roof (convertible) or plastic exterior panels (Saturn). Lightning could pass directly through that material.

[tony.latham]

It's not uncommon with aircraft.



Tony

[Cosmo]

Am I Safe from Lightning in my RV? (Video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtAFqo3MLrA

-Cosmo