It’s Pretty and Deadly – Montana Ranks High for Lighting Fatalities

When Mother Nature decides to hit the switch and let the lights crackle across the sky in Montana, it can be breathtaking.  Watching lighting dance across the mountains or prairies can be mesmerizing at times when storms hit.

via GIPHY

But while those storms may be beautiful to admire, they can also turn deadly with lightning.  So, where does Montana rank when it comes to fatalities related to lightning strikes?  Even with our vast state and low population, the answer may surprise you.

Get our free mobile app

It's Pretty and Deadly - Montana Ranks High for Lighting Fatalities

The National Lightning Safety Council (NLSC) helps to promote lightning safety education and awareness across the United States, analyzing data such as fatalities related to the dangerous phenomenon.  And while certain states are more susceptible to lightning, per population, Montana ranks 3rd overall for highest fatality rate.

READ MORE:  Small Venue in Montana Brings Big Name Artists to State

Leading the way is our neighboring state of Wyoming, with Alabama coming in second when statistics are adjusted for population numbers.  Overall, Florida ranks as the state with the most deaths over the past two decades with 97 total.  They also average about 1.2 million lightning strikes per year.  Montana has roughly half that many each year.

Why Does Montana Rank So High for Lightning Fatalities in America?

According to the NLSC, states like Wyoming and Montana are more likely to see fatalities based on 3 particular reasons including:

• Outdoor work
• Open landscapes
• Limited shelter

Nearly two-thirds of fatalities happen during outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, boating and working.  The agency says that improved forecasting and even smart phones have helped cut deaths by nearly half in the last decade.  Learn more about lightning statistics and ways to stay safe here.