A video emerged online showing a traffic light being struck by lightning right next to a car during a heavy thunderstorm, and the whole incident was captured on the car’s dashcam.
The incident took place along Yishun, and the dashcam footage was shared across social media on Friday.
The camcar was waiting at a traffic junction during the heavy downpour while the traffic light was red at the time, with the rain spattering heavily on the car’s windshield.
A bright flash of lightning then thundered down from the sky and hits a traffic light, with the lightning bolt turning from bright orange to a warm red and engulfing the entire traffic light pole.
The traffic light then short circuited and stopped working straight away.
Protecting yourself when driving during a thunderstorm
- Check the Weather Forecast
Before heading out on a trip, make it a habit to check the weather forecast. Pay particular attention to thunderstorm warnings or watches issued for your area. If severe weather is expected, consider postponing your journey, if possible, to avoid putting yourself in unnecessary danger.
- Stay Informed on Weather Updates
If you’re already on the road and thunderstorms develop unexpectedly, stay informed about the weather conditions by listening to local radio stations or using weather apps on your smartphone. This will help you make informed decisions about your route and potential hazards along the way.
- Seek Shelter or Pull Over
If you find yourself in the midst of a thunderstorm with intense lightning activity, the safest option is to seek shelter indoors. However, if shelter isn’t readily available, it’s crucial to pull over and park your vehicle in a safe location. Look for areas away from trees and bodies of water, which can attract lightning. Parking under an overpass can provide additional protection.
- Stay Inside Your Vehicle
Once you’ve parked, remain inside your vehicle until the storm passes. Avoid touching any metal surfaces or objects inside the car, as lightning can travel through them. Keep all windows closed, and avoid using electronic devices or talking on your cell phone. These precautions will help protect you from potential electric shock or injury caused by a lightning strike.
- Avoid Direct Contact with Metal
Lightning can travel through the metal framework of a vehicle and into the ground. Minimize your risk of injury by avoiding direct contact with metal surfaces inside your car. Refrain from touching the steering wheel, gear shift, or any other metal components. Sitting on a rubber mat or wearing rubber-soled shoes can provide an extra layer of insulation.
- Don’t Seek Shelter Under Trees
While seeking shelter under trees might seem like a logical choice during a downpour, it’s an extremely hazardous decision during thunderstorms. Trees are one of the primary targets for lightning strikes, and taking cover under them significantly increases the risk of injury or fatality. Always opt for a safe location away from trees when seeking shelter from the storm.
- Be Cautious of Flooded Areas
During heavy rain, it’s common for roads to flood, and flooded areas can conceal hazards beneath the water’s surface. Lightning can also strike through water, potentially electrifying the area. Therefore, exercise extreme caution when encountering flooded roads or areas, and avoid driving through them if possible. Turn around and find an alternate, safe route to your destination.