Semi-dumb Question - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

RedSledTeam · 10-03-2010, 07:01 AM

Don MacGorman, a physicist at the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman, Oklahoma. Had this to say on the subject

"Basically lightning stays more on the surface of the water rather than penetrating it. That's because water is a reasonably good conductor, and a good conductor keeps most of the current on the surface.
So, when lightning hits the water, the current zips across the surface in all directions. And if you're swimming anywhere in the vicinity, it'll probably hit you. But below the surface, most of the electricity is instantly neutralized. So the fish are generally spared.
Of course, if the fish happen to be surfacing, they're at risk just like you are. "
Dr. MacGorman adds that some electricity does penetrate the water, right at the strike point.

Read more: When lightning strikes the ocean why don't all the fish die? | Answerbag http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/379932#ixzz11JAk361t

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10-03-2010, 07:01 AM	#10
RedSledTeam Daddeo Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: OC Posts: 660	Don MacGorman, a physicist at the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman, Oklahoma. Had this to say on the subject "Basically lightning stays more on the surface of the water rather than penetrating it. That's because water is a reasonably good conductor, and a good conductor keeps most of the current on the surface. So, when lightning hits the water, the current zips across the surface in all directions. And if you're swimming anywhere in the vicinity, it'll probably hit you. But below the surface, most of the electricity is instantly neutralized. So the fish are generally spared. Of course, if the fish happen to be surfacing, they're at risk just like you are. " Dr. MacGorman adds that some electricity does penetrate the water, right at the strike point. Read more: When lightning strikes the ocean why don't all the fish die? \| Answerbag http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/379932#ixzz11JAk361t