What is the effect of rapid air expansion associated with lightning strikes on the human body?

The phenomenon of rapid air expansion caused by lightning strikes results primarily in blunt trauma. This occurs because when lightning strikes, the intense heat generated causes the surrounding air to expand rapidly and explosively. This rapid expansion can create a shockwave that can lead to injuries such as concussions or other blunt force trauma.

The physical force of the shockwave is significant enough to knock a person off their feet or cause injury from flying debris, which is characteristic of blunt trauma. Such injuries arise from the impact rather than direct electrical damage or thermal burns, which are associated with other aspects of lightning strikes. While electrical shock and burns can also occur from lightning, the primary effects of rapid air expansion are linked to the physical trauma caused by the accompanying shockwave.