Protecting yourself from a thunderstorm when you are outside

3/18/2018 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can strike unexpectedly. Be Prepared for anything.

Finding yourself outside during a thunderstorm can be extremely scary.  While the safest thing you could do to protect yourself from being struck by lightening is to find shelter, sometimes shelter is too far away.  

Before going on any outdoor adventure, know the daily forecast and the weather patterns of the place you are going to visit.  If there is a high chance of thunderstorms for the day, opt to stay inside and plan your trip for another time.

According to the National Weather Service, there are still several ways you can protect yourself if you are outside during a thunderstorm and cannot find shelter.

1. Plan ahead.

2. Avoid open fields, the top of a hill or a ridge top.

3. Stay away from tall, isolated trees or other tall objects.  If you are in a forest, stay near a lower stand of trees.  

4. If you are in a group, spread out to avoid the current traveling between group members.  

5. If you are camping in an open area, set up camp in a valley, ravine or other low area.  Remember, a tent offers NO protection from lightning.  

6. Stay away from water and wet items, such as ropes, and metal objects, such as fences and poles.  Water and metal do not attract electricity but they are excellent conductors of electricity.  The current from a lightning flash will easily travel long distances.