Lightning TrackerWhat are the odds of being struck by lightning?
In the United States the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year are about 1 in 1,222,000, and over an 80-year lifetime about 1 in 15,300, according to the National Weather Service.
The numbers
| Odds | Value |
|---|---|
| Struck in a given year | 1 in 1,222,000 |
| Struck in your lifetime (80 years) | 1 in 15,300 |
| Affected by someone being struck (about 10 people for every person struck) | 1 in 1,530 |
National Weather Service, based on 2009–2018: an average of 27 reported deaths and an estimated 243 injuries a year, US population 330 million.
Why the odds aren't the same for everyone
These are averages across the whole population. Your own risk depends on how much time you spend outdoors while storms are around — and on where you live, because thunderstorms are far more frequent in some places than others. The city pages on this site show how many days a year bring severe weather to each place we track.
How to lower your odds
- "When thunder roars, go indoors." If you can hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you.
- Shelter in a substantial building with electricity or plumbing, or an enclosed, metal-topped vehicle with the windows up.
- Stay in shelter at least 30 minutes after you hear the last thunder.
- Indoors, avoid corded phones, plumbing and electrical equipment. More in our lightning safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
What are the odds of getting struck by lightning in a year?
About 1 in 1,222,000, based on National Weather Service estimates of deaths and injuries from 2009 to 2018 and a US population of 330 million.
What are the odds of being struck by lightning in your lifetime?
About 1 in 15,300, assuming an 80-year life, according to the National Weather Service.
How many people are killed by lightning each year in the US?
The National Weather Service figure behind these odds is an average of 27 deaths a year reported in 2009–2018, with an estimated 243 injuries.
Sources
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Updated Sep 29, 2026.