RUTHERFORD COUNTY, Tenn. (WGNS) — July marks the deadliest month for lightning strikes in the U.S., and with storms common across Middle Tennessee this time of year, local residents are urged to take extra precautions.

National Weather Service and Centers for Disease Control data show that more lightning-related deaths occur in July than any other month, with June and August following closely behind. From 2006 to 2021, Tennessee recorded between six and 15 lightning fatalities, placing it among the higher-risk states in the Southeast.

Most lightning deaths happen in the afternoon, particularly between noon and 6 p.m., and peak on weekends when people are more likely to be outdoors. Leisure activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing account for about 62% of lightning-related deaths—fishing alone caused four times more fatalities than golf in recent years.

Men make up nearly 80% of lightning victims, and about 18% of all fatalities occur during outdoor work like farming or construction.

While open areas such as lakes, sports fields, and parks present high risk, about one-third of lightning injuries happen indoors. Strikes can travel through wiring, plumbing, and concrete structures, creating hazards even inside homes and buildings.

Safety experts recommend following the “30/30 rule”: seek shelter if thunder is heard within 30 seconds of a lightning flash, and wait at least 30 minutes after the last rumble before resuming outdoor activities.

With summer storms continuing in Rutherford County, local residents are encouraged to monitor forecasts and act quickly when lightning is in the area.