Nearby lightning strikes may create intense, local magnetic fields, which in turn may induce dangerous electrical currents in the human body. In theory, these currents may even cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and tissue damage without leaving external marks. This phenomenon may explain why some hikers are found dead in the wilderness with no apparent cause of death. This mechanism may explain some unwitnessed and otherwise inexplicable "heart attacks" among hikers who have been found dead in the mountains.
To protect yourself from lightning, the author advises:
-- Plan ahead. Know where the nearest shelter is located (a building, your car), so you can go there as soon as you hear or see an electrical storm approaching.
-- Steer clear of tall objects. Lightning usually strikes the tallest object in the vicinity.
-- Avoid water and metal. Both water and metal are good conductors of electricity.
-- Stay off the phone. Lightning strikes can transmit electricity via phone lines.
The Lancet June 13, 1998;351:1788.
COMMENT: I never cease to be amazed at the powerful effects of electromagnestims on our body. I fully believe that energy medicine along with light will be the medicine of the future. In the meantime, it is best to apply what we already know. Please use common sense and take shelter when you see lightening or hear thunder.