Just watching a film on TV and there is a tall masted yacht miles out at sea in a storm with lightning striking close by. Given that they tend to be made of materials that, unlike a car, offer no Faraday cage protection, what is best practise in this event? Stay on deck, go below, get in the water, get in a dinghy tied to the yacht but quite a distance away, or something else?

queproblema

According to the National Weather Service (USA), there's no safe place outdoors or especially on the water. Boaters are supposed to listen to news bulletins, be aware of impending bad weather, and make for land as soon as possible. A tall masted yacht in all probably WOULD be equipped to protect against lightning. "The vast majority of lightning injuries and deaths on boats occur on small boats with NO cabin. It is crucial to listen to the weather on a small aquatic vessel without a cabin. If thunderstorms are forecast, don't go out. If you are out on the water and skies are threatening, get back to land and find a safe building or vehicle. Boats with cabins offer a safer but not perfect environment. Safety is increased further if the boat has a properly installed lightning protection system. If you are inside the cabin, stay away from metal and all electrical components. STAY OFF THE RADIO UNLESS IT IS AN ABSOLUTE EMERGENCY! What should you do if you are on a small vessel and lightning becomes a threat? If the vessel has an anchor, then you should properly anchor the boat then get as low as possible. Large boats with cabins, especially those with lightning protection systems properly installed or metal marine vessels are relatively safe. Remember to stay inside the cabin and away from any metal surfaces." From the very bottom of this long page: http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/outdoors.htm Apr 27 08, 7:19 PM