BRAVE AI:
While the metal body of a hardtop car typically acts as a Faraday cage that protects occupants by conducting electricity around the exterior, a lightning bolt can enter through the windshield if the vehicle is parked with windows open or if the strike is exceptionally powerful and finds a path through the glass.
Key risks and mechanics:
Entry Points:
Lightning usually strikes the antenna or roofline, but it can shatter the windshield and dashboard if it enters through an open window or penetrates the glass directly.
Occupant Safety:
If the car’s windows are fully closed, the metal frame generally shields passengers. However, if the strike enters through the windshield or an open window, the electrical current can pass through the cabin, potentially injuring or killing occupants.
Vehicle Damage:
A strike through the windshield can shatter the glass, ignite a fire (as seen in a 2019 incident in Oregon), and fry the car’s electrical system, potentially rendering the vehicle inoperable.
Safety Protocol:
In the event of a strike, remain inside with windows closed, avoid touching metal parts like the steering wheel or door handles, and wait at least 30 minutes before exiting.
Note:
Convertibles or vehicles with non-metallic roofs (like carbon fiber) do not provide Faraday cage protection and are significantly more dangerous during a lightning storm.
Lightning Strikes Van, Shatters Windshield:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zD2Fa5gtW0
What Happens If LIGHTNING STRIKES your CAR - Here’s What To Do
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7pU-LcE9pM
Flash-Boom at the same time.
Engine severely reduced power and became louder.
The lightning blew off the ‘hose’ connecting the after cooler to the engine intake.
Boss said to drive it and make the AM delivery.
Another 180 miles at 25-30 mph…flashers on and mostly in the shoulder of the IH.
One of the rare times I did not pass a Weight Man.