It is not safe to shower during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through plumbing, especially metal pipes, and water is a good conductor of electricity. If lightning strikes a building, the electrical current can travel through the pipes and potentially cause electric shock or fatal electrocution to someone showering or bathing at that time
. Key points include:
- Lightning can enter plumbing systems and travel through water pipes, posing a risk during showers, baths, or any water-based activities like washing dishes or hands
- The risk exists even with plastic pipes, because metal fixtures and connections can conduct electricity
- Experts recommend avoiding contact with plumbing and running water during thunderstorms to reduce the risk of being struck
- The danger is real though relatively rare; about 10 to 20 people in the US are shocked annually from lightning traveling through household water during storms
- It is advised to wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before showering again
In summary, to minimize the risk of lightning-related injury, you should avoid showering, bathing, or using plumbing during a thunderstorm.
