Archive · 26 May 2025
Why You Should Avoid Showers During Thunderstorms
During a thunderstorm, it's important to avoid taking a shower.
Lightning can strike a building and travel through its wiring and plumbing.
The water in your pipes is a good conductor of electricity, and if you're in contact with it, you could get electrocuted.
The CDC advises against showering, washing dishes, and even washing hands during a thunderstorm.
Even though these incidents are rare, they can cause injuries.
To stay safe, wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming water activities.
Showering during a thunderstorm can be dangerous due to the risk of electrocution.
Lightning can travel through a building's plumbing and water.
The CDC recommends avoiding all water-related activities during storms.
Incidents are rare but injuries from indoor lightning strikes have occurred.
Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming water activities.
- Who
- The general public.
- What
- Avoiding showering, bathing, and other water-related activities.
- When
- During a thunderstorm.
- Where
- Homes and buildings with plumbing systems.
- Why
- Lightning can travel through plumbing, potentially electrocuting those in contact with water.
Safety Advice
Potential Risk
Exposure to Water
Safety Advice
Avoiding water related activities will greatly minimize the risk.
Potential Risk
Risk of electric shock or electrocution
- Risk
- Electrocution from lightning traveling through plumbing
- Affected Activities
- Showering, bathing, washing dishes, washing hands
- Guidance Source
- CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Safety Measure
- Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder to resume water activities
- Consequences
- Injuries, though rare, can occur from indoor lightning strikes