Dolphin Tales: Does lightning affect dolphins?
It is common for me to have to cancel charters due to lightning this time of year. Having been struck indirectly twice in my lifetime on the water in Southwest Florida, it is very personal.
Lightning can travel a surprisingly long distance both vertically and horizontally. A “bolt from the blue” can strike as far as 25 miles away from its source. Lightning has been recorded traveling hundreds of miles. Although the skies may be blue, you can still be struck and killed.
But what about dolphins? How does lightning affect them?
The effect of lightning on marine wildlife is more likely to be from the powerful sound wave and pressure wave generated by a strike than from direct electrocution. Lightning primarily dissipates across the water’s surface, and fish, including dolphins, are less likely to be directly impacted due to the water’s conductivity. However, dolphins, like other marine mammals, can be in the vicinity of the strike, potentially suffering from the shockwave or a glancing blow.
When lightning strikes the water, the electrical current spreads out across the surface. Water, especially saltwater, is a good conductor of electricity, so the current doesn’t penetrate deeply. Dolphins spend time at the surface for breathing and socializing, making them potentially vulnerable to a strike.
Lightning generates a very loud sound and a powerful pressure wave as it dissipates through the water. These waves can cause harm to marine life, including dolphins, especially if they are close to the strike.
While some scientists estimate that whales and dolphins must have been killed by lightning in the past, there’s not a lot of hard evidence. This is partly because it’s difficult to determine if a death was caused by lightning or another factor.
At the first sign of thunder, it is crucial to seek shelter indoors, and stay there for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder. Lightning detection equipment has confirmed bolts striking almost 50 miles away. Because I live my life on the water, I live by these codes. Safety first!
Captain Cathy Eagle has spent over 40 years boating on our local waters. As a professional charter captain, she specializes in dolphin and nature tours. Visit CaptainCathy.com or call /text 239 994-2572. Welcome aboard!