Solid Metallic Frame: Cars have a solid metal frame that acts as a Faraday cage, which protects the occupants from lightning strikes. The metal frame redirects the electrical current from lightning around the car and into the ground, minimizing the risk of injury to the passengers inside.
Rubber Tires: When a car is sitting on the ground, its rubber tires act as insulators. Rubber is a poor conductor of electricity, which means that it resists the flow of electric current. Thus, the rubber tires help prevent the lightning from reaching the car's occupants.
Closed Environment: A car provides a closed environment that shields its passengers from the elements, including rain and wind. This protection is especially important during a thunderstorm when heavy rain and strong winds can pose additional safety hazards.
On the other hand, standing under a tree during a thunderstorm is generally considered unsafe due to the following reasons:
Height: Trees are tall and often serve as the highest point in the surrounding area. Lightning is attracted to the highest points, making trees more likely to be struck by lightning.
Moisture: Trees are conductors of electricity, and they can become even more conductive when wet from rain. When lightning strikes a tree, the electrical current can travel through the trunk and branches of the tree, creating a risk of electrocution for anyone touching or standing near the tree.
Splitting: When lightning strikes a tree, the intense heat and electrical current can cause the tree to split and break apart, sending debris and splinters flying in all directions. This can cause serious injuries or fatalities for anyone standing under or near the tree.
Therefore, it is generally advisable to seek shelter in a sturdy building or, if that is not possible, in a fully enclosed metal vehicle during a thunderstorm to minimize the risk of injury from lightning strikes.
