Do Fish Die From Lightning Strikes?
Since lightning tends to spread along the surface of the ocean, where humans swim, it’s best for people to leave the water. Fish are generally found deeper in the ocean where the electric current is less likely to catch them, however a fish unfortunate enough to be at the surface close to a lightning bolt would most certainly be fried. NOAA’s National Severe Storms Laboratory notes in its “About Lightning…FAQ” page that lightning can penetrate a short distance into the water and kill fish nearby. Martin Uman of the University of Florida’s electrical and engineering department says the danger zone for fish is 10 to 20 feet down, as referenced in the MSN Encarta column “Martha Talks Back” by Martha Brockenborough. Ultimately, the answer to the question “Does lightning kill fish?” is – occasionally, but not often.
