Some basic lightning safety knowledge is important if you spend much time exploring the Rocky Mountains.  Here are some tips on what you should and shouldn’t do if you get caught in a lightning storm.

Every year in the United States there are about 49 people killed by lightning.  That number may seem high, but to put it in perspective, 90,000 people die in car accidents every year.  That is almost 1,500 times more than die from lightning.  Yet, we do not let that keep us from driving in a car.  Likewise, you shouldn’t let the fear of lightning keep you from enjoying the mountains.  Following some precautions and knowing what to do will help keep you as safe as possible.

Where Does Lightning Strike?

To keep yourself safe when there is lightning it’s important to know where lightning will most likely strike.

Lightning tends to strike the tallest object in an area.  That could be a tall tree, boulder, or building.

Keep in mind that NOAA states that nowhere outdoors is completely safe during a lightning storm.  They recommend that you get into a substantial building that is completely enclosed and has plumbing and electricity.  If you can’t do that, then here are some tips on what to do and avoid to make you as safe as possible.

Are Those Clouds Bringing A Lightning Storm

There are lots of different types of clouds and not all of them bring lightning with them.

The main types of clouds you need to watch out for are the big, towering cumulonimbus clouds.  These are massive, towering clouds that come looming on the horizon.  Be warned if you see one of those heading your way as it most likely means lightning is on the way and you need to prepare yourself for it.

How Far Away Is The Lightning?

If you see lightning there is a way to figure out how far away it is called the flash to bang method.  Basically, count from when you see the lightning till you hear the thunder.  Then divide that number by 5 and that is how many miles away the lightning is from you.

Lightning Safety Tips

Avoid Storms if Possible

This first tip is kind of common sense, but not everyone follows it.  Don’t go for a hike or fishing if you know a big lightning storm is forecast.

Keep your eyes on the weather or forecast.  Storms typically come later in the afternoon in the mountains.  So, if possible plan your hikes and activities early in the day.  Do not go for a long hike that will have you up high on a mountain later in the day.

If you are curious about lightning, you can check out these cool facts by clicking here.

DON’T (NEVER) Do These Things In A Lightning Storm

• You should never take shelter under an isolated tree.  The tree will attract the lightning and increase the odds of your getting struck.  Remember, lightning tends to strike the tallest object around.
• Never lie flat on the ground.
• Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter.

*Note – Tents are not safe during lightning storms.  The metal tent poles can conduct electricity.

Follow These Lightning Safety Tips 9 (DO THESE THINGS!)

• Get away from water such as ponds, lakes, or other bodies of water.
• Get away from open fields or the tops of ridges and hills.  If you are in these places you will be the tallest object around and increase your chances of being struck.
• If you are in a forest, look for a group of shorter trees and take shelter under them.  This is because the lightning will strike the taller trees in the forest.
• If you are in a group spread out to prevent the current traveling between you.
• You should get in your car if you are at a campground and your car is nearby.
• If you are in open areas, look for lower areas in the terrain and seek shelter there.  This could be a dry ravine or valley, but not one with water in it.

As A Last Measure Get Down Low

Get into a squatting position with your arms wrapped around your knees.  Keep your feet together and make yourself into a ball.  Try to make yourself comfortable as you may sit like this until the storm and immediate threat has passed.

You can learn other safety tips, such as bear safety, mountain lion safety, or moose safety.