Lightning storms can be a frightening experience while backpacking, but they don’t have to ruin your trip. It’s important to take steps to stay safe while still enjoying the outdoors. Knowing what to do in a lightning storm will help you get through it and stay safe.
The most important thing is to get off of any high ground or open spaces. Don’t seek shelter under trees or other tall objects, as these can be prone to being struck by lightning.
If you’re in an open area, look for a depression or cave in the ground that you can hide in until the storm passes. If possible, move to lower ground and find a spot with good drainage so that runoff from the rain doesn’t collect around you.
If you’re out on the trail, find a sturdy building or structure to take shelter in. Look for signs of lightning strikes nearby before entering it and make sure there are no downed power lines around. Avoid contact with anything metal inside the building, including door handles and window frames.
If there is no shelter available and you can’t get off of high ground, stay low and crouch down. Do not lie flat on the ground as this increases your chances of getting hit by lightning. In addition, avoid contact with other people or objects touching them as this can create an electrical current that could put everyone at risk.
Once you have reached safety, keep an eye on the sky for signs of when the storm will pass. If possible, try to stay away from any water sources during lightning storms as even small puddles can become electrified by lightning strikes.
Lightning storms backpacking can be scary but following these safety tips will help ensure that your trip remains enjoyable and safe. Knowing what do in a lightning storm will give you peace of mind so that you can focus on enjoying your time outdoors.
Conclusion:
What do you do in a lightning storm backpacking? The most important thing is to get off of any high ground or open spaces and seek shelter inside a sturdy building or structure if possible.
If there is no shelter available and you cannot get off of high ground, stay low and crouch down avoiding contact with other people or objects touching them. Once you’ve found safety, keep an eye on the sky for signs of when the storm will pass and avoid water sources during a lightning storm for added protection.