All survival guides
Storms & Disasters
Lightning Safety
When thunder roars, go indoors. There is no safe place outside in a lightning storm.
What to do
- 1Get inside a substantial building or a hard-topped vehicle.
- 2Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back out.
- 3Indoors, avoid plumbing, corded electronics, and windows.
- 4If caught outside with no shelter, avoid high ground, tall isolated trees, water, and open fields; spread your group out.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sheltering under a lone tree
- Finishing the game/hike 'real quick'
- Showering or doing dishes during a storm
Good to know
- The 30/30 rule: take cover if thunder follows lightning within 30 seconds.
Continue here — more Storms & Disasters