Staying safe from lightning on a hike

A short, useful read for the HubCage community.

Thunderstorms often build quickly in the afternoon, especially in mountains during summer. Check the forecast before setting out and plan to reach exposed ridges and summits early in the day. If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike, so it is time to move towards lower ground and shelter. No place outdoors is completely safe during a storm.

Avoid isolated tall trees, open fields, hilltops and water, and keep away from metal fences. A building or an enclosed vehicle offers the best protection. If a group is caught in the open, spread out so that a single strike cannot injure everyone. Wait at least thirty minutes after the last thunder before continuing, because storms can return unexpectedly.