Hey all you fellow VFR Scooter Hooters. After reading Speedstreetz post on his ride and being caught in a storm, I did a little research that we should all take a look at. Please check this out so that we are all in the know. Questions and Answers about Lightning: FAQs Be safe.
That is good stuff, Randy. Given the number of lightening strikes a year, it seems that one reason there are less injuries from lightening than you might expect is because people avoid hanging around in it. It sounds like you were close enough to get hit by the shockwave as well as feel the juice.
I was caught in a lightning storm a few years back heading south on I-75 about 40 miles from Knoxville. I was with a buddy riding a ZX-6. We both had the same idea - get the f outta there. Nothing like burning up about 25 miles at 120+. That was the scariest riding I have ever done, being in the middle of that. MD
1. lightning can travel/hit hundred miles plus from where a storm is active 2. Looking for cover would of been better than trying to out run it as in lightning aka traveling the speed of light aka a sh_t load faster than 120 MPH :boink:
Outran a tornado that hit Brooks Alberta back in I think it was 1991. Was driving my first car, a 71 Le mans Convertible and pulling a sizable trailer. The old Betsey just moved up along the highway doing 95-100 MPH with the trailer just a wagging behind. Pulled into Calgary well away from the storm none too soon. The ole Betty overheated on me but I guess I can understand why. If I remember correctly, that tornado was a big one that cause considerable damage. I spotted it before the funnel touched ground.
You may be right on the cover thing, I guess ya had to be there. We had a hotel waiting in Knoxville and determined to make it before the rain hit. MD
I just got home from work and have never felt more relieved. Last 30 miles or so on the commute there was lightning all around me. One blinding flash right before my eyes. Think one of those metal rode markers was hit about 1/2 mile ahead of me. Lightning was not in the forecast for tonight...just minor showers. Some sumbich lied to me. I am sure I am going to hear from my wife when she gets up in the morning. Some of life's experiences do not need to be re-lived:target::kaboom::jaw::behindsofa:
