When a vehicle is subjected to a high-voltage electrical discharge from the atmosphere, several phenomena occur. The vehicle’s metal body acts as a Faraday cage, conducting the electricity around the occupants and ideally channeling it to the ground. This protection minimizes the risk of direct electrocution to individuals inside. Damage to the vehicle’s electrical system, tires, and potentially the exterior body is, however, likely.
Understanding the effects of such an event is crucial for safety and preparedness. While fatalities inside vehicles during lightning strikes are rare due to the Faraday cage effect, significant damage can still occur, leading to costly repairs. Historically, anecdotal evidence and scientific study have contributed to refining safety protocols during electrical storms, emphasizing seeking shelter in grounded structures whenever possible.
