July 31. North Carolina has the ninth-highest lightning death rate in the United States, according to a new study by personal injury law firm Simmrin Law Group. The research analyzed data from the National Lightning Safety Council covering all 50 states between 2015 and 2024.

The study calculated the number of lightning deaths per million residents to determine which states are most affected by lightning fatalities.

Details

North Carolina reported a lightning fatality rate of 1.05 deaths per million residents—about 88% higher than the national average of 0.56. The state recorded 11 lightning-related deaths over the 10-year period, based on a population of 10.5 million.

Key takeaway

A spokesperson for Simmrin Law Group said local officials should prioritize public outreach and infrastructure improvements to help protect lives during thunderstorms.