Description

A person who is aloft may be struck by lightning.


 

Flying in a closed airplane with an intact metal skin is usually not associated with lightning injury since the electricity flows around the occupants.

 

High risk exposures:

(1) flying in a cloth covered airframe (glider, ultra-light, etc)

(2) hang gliding

(3) parachuting

(4) flying a metal plane with the window open and an arm or hand exposed

(5) balloon

 

Situation: usually while traversing a thunderstorm, although lightning may occur under clear conditions

 

Evidence:

(1) skin arborization

(2) entrance and exit burns

(3) burns associated with metal objects or clothing fasteners

(4) wounds associated with arcing

 


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