Getting caught in a thunderstorm while hiking can be a frightening experience. Thunderstorms are unpredictable and can come on quickly, but knowing how to respond in these situations can keep you safe and minimize risk. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you find yourself in the midst of a thunderstorm while on the trail.
1. Seek Shelter Immediately
The first priority when a thunderstorm hits is to seek shelter as quickly as possible to protect yourself from lightning and heavy rain.
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Head for a Shelter: If you're close to a trailhead, campground, or sheltered area like a hut or cabin, head there immediately to take refuge from the storm.
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Avoid Open Areas: If you’re caught in a thunderstorm, avoid open fields, ridgelines, and the top of mountains where you are more likely to be struck by lightning.
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Seek Low Ground: Lightning is more likely to strike taller objects, so if you're in a forest, head toward a low area but not near water or trees, which could potentially be struck.
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If No Shelter Is Available: If you’re in a remote location without shelter, take cover under thick trees or use your rain gear to protect yourself from the rain.
2. Avoid High-Risk Areas for Lightning Strikes
Thunderstorms bring an increased risk of lightning strikes. To stay safe, here’s where you should not be during a lightning storm:
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Tall Objects: Avoid standing near tall objects such as trees, flagpoles, or any other exposed structures that could attract lightning.
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Water: Stay away from bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and streams, as water is an excellent conductor of electricity.
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Rocky Overhangs: Avoid seeking shelter under rocky overhangs or cliffs, as they can be dangerous during storms due to the potential for falling rocks or debris.
3. Crouch Down and Minimize Contact with the Ground
If there is no immediate shelter available and you’re caught in the open, it’s important to minimize your risk of being struck by lightning.
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Crouch Low: If you’re caught in a lightning storm, crouch low to the ground (like a frog position) while keeping your feet together. This will reduce your risk of becoming a lightning conduit. Do not lie flat on the ground as it can increase your risk of injury.
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Do Not Shelter Under a Single Tree: If you must seek shelter, never stand under a single tree or tall structure, as they can be lightning rods.
4. Use Your Gear to Stay Dry and Safe
In addition to seeking shelter, take steps to stay dry and minimize your exposure to the elements.
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Rain Gear: Put on rain jackets, pants, and a rain cover for your backpack to keep dry. Waterproof your gear and pack essentials such as a poncho or waterproof shelter.
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Emergency Shelter: If you don’t have immediate access to a shelter, a rainfly, tarp, or emergency bivy can provide some protection against rain, though they won’t fully shield you from lightning.
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Stay Close to Your Shelter: If you’ve found shelter, stay as far away from the edges as possible to protect yourself from potential hazards.
5. Don’t Use Electronics During a Storm
If you’re caught in a thunderstorm, it’s important to stay safe and avoid using electronics that could attract lightning.
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Avoid Phones and GPS Devices: Don’t use your phone or other electronic devices if you’re near an exposed area, as electronics can increase the risk of attracting lightning.
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Avoid Metal Objects: Don’t hold or carry metal objects like trekking poles, knives, or fishing rods that could conduct electricity.
6. Wait for the Storm to Pass
Once you've found shelter and taken the necessary safety precautions, wait for the storm to pass. Don’t rush to continue hiking immediately after the rain stops.
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Wait for Clear Skies: Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder to resume hiking. The storm may seem to subside, but it’s important to ensure the weather has fully cleared before continuing.
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Stay Updated: If you have access to a device with weather information or a satellite phone, use it to check for any upcoming storms and adjust your plans accordingly.
7. After the Storm: Check for Hazards
Once the storm has passed, take a moment to assess the trail conditions and your surroundings before continuing.
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Flooded Trails: Check if the trail has been washed out by heavy rain or if any rivers have swollen to dangerous levels due to the rain. If you encounter a flooded trail, consider turning back or finding a detour.
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Fallen Trees and Debris: Storms can cause trees to fall or branches to break. Stay alert for obstacles or dangers on the trail that may have occurred during the storm.
8. Know When to Turn Back
Sometimes, it’s safest to turn back and return to a safer location if the storm is too severe.
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Assess the Risk: If conditions worsen or if you’re unsure about your safety, it’s best to turn back and head to a lower, safer location. It’s always better to err on the side of caution than to continue in potentially dangerous conditions.
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Don’t Push Through: If the storm is too severe or the terrain becomes dangerous, it’s important to know when to stop hiking. Your safety should always come first.
Summary of What to Do If You Get Caught in a Thunderstorm While Hiking:
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Seek shelter immediately: Find safe cover away from tall objects, water, and rocks.
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Minimize contact with the ground: Crouch low to reduce your chances of being struck by lightning.
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Use your gear: Stay dry with rain gear, and consider using a tarp or rainfly for shelter.
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Avoid electronics and metal objects: Keep your phone and other devices out of your hands.
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Wait for the storm to pass: Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before continuing.
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Turn back if necessary: If the storm worsens, consider returning to a safer location.
Thunderstorms are an unavoidable part of hiking, but with the right preparation and response, you can stay safe and comfortable. Always prioritize your safety during storms by seeking shelter, staying hydrated, and waiting until conditions clear before continuing your hike.
At Hilltop Packs, we provide gear designed to help you stay safe and dry during any weather conditions..