It might come as a surprise to some, but cruise ships do occasionally get struck by lightning. In fact, according to one study, there have been more than 100 such incidents in the last three decades.
While it’s certainly not a common occurrence, there are a few things cruise passengers can do to minimize their risk if a lightning storm rolls in. Firstly, be sure to stay inside and away from any open windows or balconies. And secondly, avoid using any electronic devices or metal objects.
So far, no cruise ship has ever been seriously damaged by lightning, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you’re on a cruise and see storm clouds brewing, heed the warnings and take cover. You’ll be glad you did.
How Are Cruise Ships Protected By Lightning?
Cruise ships have a few means of protection against lightning strikes. For starters, they’re typically built with metal frames, which help dissipate the electrical current. They also have extensive lightning rods installed on the top decks, which help to draw the electricity away from the ship.
In addition, cruise ships are equipped with sophisticated weather radar systems, which can detect storms and give passengers plenty of warning. So even if you’re out on the deck and a storm strikes, chances are you’ll have time to get to safety.
They also have these other safety features built-in:
- Extensive lifesaving equipment, including lifeboats, life rafts and survival suits.
- High-powered fire hoses and fire suppression systems.
- State-of-the-art security systems, including surveillance cameras and alarms.
Are Cruise Ships Safe in Storms?
Cruise ships are designed to withstand a certain amount of bad weather, and most storms won’t pose a risk to passengers. However, there are occasional outbreaks of severe weather that can cause problems.
In general, cruise lines will do their best to avoid sailing into storms, but sometimes they’re unavoidable. If you’re worried about your safety, be sure to talk to the crew and get their latest updates on the weather.
Remember, cruise ships are equipped with some of the most advanced safety features in the world. So even if things do go wrong, you’re likely to be safe and sound. Just follow the crew’s instructions and stay inside until the storm passes.
Do Cruise Ships Have Any Lightning Strike Precautions?
Yes, cruise ships have a number of precautions in place to protect passengers from lightning strikes. For starters, they typically won’t sail into a storm. They’re also equipped with extensive lightning rods and weather radar systems.
In addition, cruise ships have elaborate safety procedures in place in case of a lightning strike. Passengers are typically advised to stay inside until the storm passes. And if you’re on deck when a storm hits, be sure to take cover indoors as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The chance of getting struck by lightning while on a cruise is relatively small, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Overall you should be fine during your cruise but if you are worried don’t be afraid to speak to any of the crew members.
