PAGASA debunks myths about lightning
THE only “myth” that can be believed about being struck by lightning is it can kill.
Greg De Vera, bureau chief of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in Pangasinan, De Vera said even as he assured the public that there is nothing to fear about thunderstorms during the weekly KBP Forum last Thursday.
He debunked he myth that red color attracts lightning.
“That’s not true. Look at some cars that are colored red and roofs of houses, too. If these are lightning-prone, then these should have been banned by their manufacturers,” he said.
He added that glass windows and doors nor mirrors are not particularly prone to be hit by lightning as old beliefs hold.
De Vera, however, did caution the public against staying in an open field during thunderstorms as tall trees and water puddles, which are conductors of electricity, could be hit by lightning.
“When lightning hits you, you will most probably end up in a funeral parlor. The use of vinegar spread over your body, as believed by some people, will not save your life,” he added.
He also reminded the people at home to unplug their appliances.
THUNDERSTORMS HERE
Meanwhile, he explained that the thunderstorms experienced in Pangasinan in the afternoons and evenings last week were triggered by the hot weather blanketing the country.
He said the months of April and May are actually the months when thunderstorms, accompanied by lightning, occur more often because of the hot climate.
“When winds from the sea and winds from the mountains meet, clouds are immediately formed. Since Pangasinan is surrounded by sea and bodies of water, clouds form quicker thus producing rains,” De Vera said during the weekly KBP Forum last Thursday.
Pangasinan experienced the hottest temperature so far this year on April 1 at 37 degrees celsius. —reports from Tita Roces and PIA1-Pangasinan/VHS
Share your Comments or Reactions
Powered by Facebook Comments
