Lightning accidents worldwide: regional analysis and medical therapy

The total number of lightning related accidents is unevenly distributed around the world. Coastal and mountainous regions as well as the tropics and subtropics are predisposed to the formation of thunderstorms due to their climatic conditions. According to respective prognoses and climate models the situation of danger concerning lightning accidents will rise in almost every part of the world due to climate change. A sufficient protection against lighting accidents is primarily provided by stable buildings and adequate educational advertising regarding risks and safety measures. Lightning related risk assessment is of particular importance in the context of outdoor sports, large open-air events, farming, air traffic, military operations, and trainings as well as travel activity