National Lightning Safety Awareness Week is observed annually from June 22 to 28, highlighting the dangers of lightning in the United States. Each year, thunderstorms produce 20 to 25 million lightning flashes that strike the ground, resulting in an average of more than 20 fatalities and hundreds of injuries, often causing permanent damage. Florida leads the nation in lightning flash density. Safety messages emphasize that no place outdoors is safe during a thunderstorm, including under trees, and the safest locations are indoors or inside hard-topped enclosed vehicles. Lightning can strike up to 10 to 15 miles away from a storm, meaning hearing thunder indicates imminent danger. Authorities advise people to seek shelter immediately when thunder is heard and to wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning strike before resuming outdoor activities. Special attention is given to protecting homes, practicing safety during outdoor sports and recreational activities, and using lightning detection apps for early warnings. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has developed an AI-powered tool called LightningCast, which can provide up to 60 minutes of advance notice to help guide emergency responses. The campaign also stresses the importance of awareness during the summer months when outdoor activities increase, and lightning fatalities tend to rise. Similar warnings and precautions are being communicated internationally, including in the UK, where thunderstorms and flash flood risks have been forecasted.