Weather disturbance in Lower Saxony - A young person died after a lightning strike in Delmenhorst
More than a week after a lightning strike in the lower Saxon Delmenhorst, a 14-year-old girl has died. The girl died in the hospital from her injuries, according to the police, who referred to the clinic for information.
The family, according to reports, had taken refuge at a public grill area in a park in the afternoon of July 21 and sought shelter from the approaching storm by standing under a tree. However, a lightning bolt struck in close proximity.
Eight members of the family were injured, according to emergency responders. The five-year-old boy and the 14-year-old girl required resuscitation and were taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Earlier reports from the authorities stated that the 38-year-old mother and her nine-year-old daughter were seriously injured. The 40-year-old father, a twelve-year-old son, a two-year-old daughter, and a 31-year-old relative sustained light injuries and were also taken to hospitals for treatment.
Trees do not protect from storms
People often seek shelter under trees during storms. "People seek shelter under trees to escape the rain and underestimate the danger during thunderstorms," said Andreas Walter, a meteorologist at the German Meteorological Service (DWD). Some even pay attention to the tree species, thinking of the old saying: "Oak you should yield, beech you should seek." However, Walter stated, there are no differences between tree species. "It's a myth."
Most lightning accidents in Germany occur in relation to trees, according to expert Thomas Raphael. According to an evaluation by the Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies (VDE), there are approximately seven fatalities and 120 injuries nationwide each year due to lightning strikes.
"The survivors often suffer severe damage that can affect them for the rest of their lives," said Raphael. They struggle with nervous damage, personality changes, memory loss, and disruption of the cold-warm sensation.
Even the first lightning bolt of a storm can cause damage, warned electrical engineer Raphael. Therefore, everyone should inform themselves about the weather conditions before engaging in outdoor activities and pay attention to the weather during the activity. "I have to consider early on where I can find shelter." Raphael observes that people have less respect for the power of nature and then, despite the danger, grill in a park.
In the same region of Lower Saxony where the tragic incident occurred in Delmenhorst, meteorologist Andreas Walter emphasizes the misconception that certain tree species offer protection during storms. Regrettably, most lightning accidents in Germany take place near trees, as stated by electrical expert Thomas Raphael, who also highlighted the long-term impacts on survivors, such as nervous damage, personality changes, and disrupted sensations.
