Lightning strikes

It seems whenever it rains here (or should that be pours with rain because it doesn't rain moderately) no one dares to venture out. Being someone who likes rain I have no problem doing so which tends to result in stares from those under shelter, as if to say 'what is that crazy man doing?!'

So I was rushing back to the hospital after lunch and it was pouring with rain. Suddenly there was a flash a couple of meters away from me. I didn't initially register what it was but then, very soon after, there was a massive explosion of thunder. I've never had lightning strike so close to me before.