Lightning doesn't always strike the firewall, its impact is unpredictable.

A lightning strike near Mali Pirešici on Thursday caused injuries to two men who were close to a tree on a parking lot, according to reports from local media. The incident occurred around 22:52 on August 21, 2026, and has raised concerns about safety during thunderstorms. Electrical engineer Vlado Djurica explained that while lightning rods significantly increase safety by allowing controlled discharge of electricity, they do not guarantee complete protection. He emphasized that lightning strikes are unpredictable and can occur anywhere, even in areas with installed lightning protection systems. Djurica, speaking on RTV Slovenia’s “Odmev” program, noted that lightning does not always hit the lightning rod. Instead, it often strikes directly into objects or people nearby, especially in open spaces. This unpredictability makes lightning one of the most dangerous natural phenomena. In Slovenia, which experiences relatively high lightning density, there have been approximately four fatalities per year due to lightning strikes. The effects of such strikes can range from external burns, caused by plasma generated during the electrical discharge, to internal injuries resulting from electric current passing through the body. The temperature of the plasma produced during a lightning strike can reach up to 30,000 degrees Celsius, making external burns almost inevitable, even if the person is only lightly touched by the lightning. Internal damage occurs when the electric current passes through the body, causing tissue destruction and potentially fatal harm to organs. In severe cases, the force of the lightning can cause a powerful shock wave, leading to physical trauma or even death. In response to the recent incident, Djurica outlined essential first aid measures. He recommended immediately calling emergency services at 112 and ensuring the area is safe before attempting to assist the injured. If possible, he advised providing basic life support, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation, similar to procedures used in cases of electrocution from household appliances. It is crucial to ensure the environment is free from additional hazards, such as exposed electrical wiring or other potential dangers. Historical incidents highlight the severity of lightning-related accidents. About fifteen years ago, a lightning strike at a football stadium in Leoben, Austria, injured 25 players. Similar occurrences have been recorded on Mount Triglav, where hikers have suffered injuries during storms. These events underscore the importance of following safety guidelines during thunderstorms. Authorities consistently advise people to avoid standing too close together outdoors and to seek shelter in protected areas if caught in bad weather. On mountain peaks, particularly in elevated regions, there is typically insufficient protection against lightning. Therefore, it is safer to descend to lower elevations, such as the Kredarica or another secure location. The same principle applies to sports fields, where spectators should move indoors or take cover in enclosed areas, and athletes should retreat to shelters rather than remain on open ground. Regarding vehicle safety during thunderstorms, modern cars offer substantial protection due to their Faraday cage-like structure. The metal frame of the car absorbs and directs the electrical charge away from passengers, creating a safe interior environment. However, this protection is less reliable in vehicles made from composite materials, which are increasingly common in newer models. Convertibles with fabric tops are particularly vulnerable, as their non-metallic construction fails to provide adequate shielding against lightning strikes.