Learning how to avoid getting struck by lightning while walking is important during thunderstorms, especially when you are outdoors and far from immediate shelter. Lightning can strike people several kilometres away from the main area of rainfall, making it important to take thunderstorms seriously even when the rain appears light. The safest approach is to monitor weather conditions, avoid exposed areas and seek substantial shelter as soon as possible when thunder is heard.
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Check the Weather Before Leaving
Before walking during the rainy season, check a reliable weather forecast for your area. Pay particular attention to thunderstorm warnings and severe weather alerts.
If thunderstorms are expected, consider postponing your journey or choosing a safer form of transport.
Planning ahead is one of the easiest ways to reduce your exposure to lightning.
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Seek Shelter as Soon as You Hear Thunder
Do not wait until lightning is directly overhead before looking for shelter. If you can hear thunder, lightning may already be close enough to pose a danger.
Move toward a substantial building or an enclosed vehicle as soon as possible.
Avoid waiting under trees or temporary structures because they do not provide reliable protection from lightning.
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Avoid Open Fields
Open spaces such as fields, playgrounds, sports grounds and large open areas can leave you exposed during thunderstorms.
If you are walking across an open area and a storm approaches, identify the nearest substantial building or enclosed vehicle and move toward it.
Do not remain in the middle of an open area simply because the rain has not yet become heavy.
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Stay Away From Tall Trees
Standing underneath a tall tree during a thunderstorm is dangerous. Lightning can strike the tree and cause electrical current to travel through or around it.
Branches can also break and fall because of strong winds.
If you are walking near trees when a storm develops, move away from isolated tall trees and seek safer shelter.
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Avoid Water and Wet Areas
Stay away from rivers, lakes, swimming pools, ponds and other bodies of water during thunderstorms.
Water conducts electricity, and being near water can increase the danger during a lightning event.
If you are walking along a river or near another water source and hear thunder, move away from the area and seek appropriate shelter.
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Do Not Shelter Under Small Structures
Bus shelters, gazebos, picnic shelters and other small open-sided structures may not provide adequate protection from lightning.
A substantial enclosed building is a much safer option.
If no suitable shelter is immediately available, continue moving toward the safest substantial shelter rather than stopping under an isolated open structure.
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Avoid Elevated Locations
Hills, ridges, rooftops and other elevated areas can increase your exposure during a thunderstorm.
If you are walking uphill or in a raised area when a storm approaches, move toward lower, safer terrain while making your way to substantial shelter.
Avoid remaining on exposed high ground.
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Keep Away From Metal Fences and Structures
Avoid touching or staying close to long metal fences, railings, poles and other conductive structures during thunderstorms.
Lightning can travel through conductive materials and potentially create dangerous electrical currents.
When walking near such structures, maintain distance and move toward a safe enclosed location.
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Do Not Lie Down Outside
If you are caught outdoors without immediate shelter, do not lie flat on the ground. Lightning-related electrical currents can spread across the ground after a strike.
Instead, reduce your exposure by moving away from dangerous locations and continue toward appropriate shelter.
There is no completely safe position outdoors during a thunderstorm, so reaching substantial shelter should remain the priority.
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Keep Moving Toward Safe Shelter
When a thunderstorm develops while you are walking, avoid unnecessary delays. Move calmly and carefully toward the nearest substantial building or enclosed vehicle.
Do not stop to take photographs, make phone calls or wait for the storm to become stronger before seeking shelter.
Your priority should be reducing the amount of time you spend outdoors during the storm.
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Avoid Touching Electrical Equipment
If you reach a building, avoid unnecessary contact with electrical equipment, plumbing and other conductive systems during the storm.
Once safely indoors, stay away from windows, doors and balconies and remain inside until the storm has passed.
If you are in an enclosed vehicle, remain inside with the doors and windows closed.
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Wait Before Continuing Your Journey
Do not immediately resume walking when the rain appears to stop. Thunderstorms can remain dangerous even after rainfall becomes lighter.
A useful safety principle is to wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before leaving a safe shelter.
If additional thunder is heard, restart the waiting period.
Also Read: How to Protect Students During Rainy Season
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