Lightning kills more people in the U.S. each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. And most victims? They were just out enjoying the outdoors—camping, fishing, hiking, or boating.

You don’t need to be in a storm to be in danger. Lightning can strike from 10+ miles away, even before rain begins. If you spend time outside, knowing what to do when the skies turn is critical.

⚡ Did You Know?

• Lightning can strike in clear skies, well ahead of a storm (a “bolt from the blue”)

• Water conducts electricity over vast distances—being near it is a major risk

• 70% of lightning injuries happen before or after the rain, not during it

🌩️ Lightning Safety Tips: On Land and Water

🏞️ IF YOU’RE ON LAND:

🔄 1. Follow the 30/30 Rule

• If you hear thunder within 30 seconds of lightning, the storm is close enough to strike

• Stay sheltered until 30 minutes after the last thunderclap

🧍 2. Avoid Isolated Trees or Open Fields

• Don’t be the tallest object

• Get away from ridgelines, hills, or lone trees

• Spread out from your group to reduce multiple injuries from a single strike

🪵 3. Crouch, Don’t Lie Down

• If you’re caught with no shelter, crouch on the balls of your feet

• Keep your feet close together

• Lower your head and cover your ears

This reduces your profile and the chance of ground current traveling through your body.

🏕️ 4. Stay Away from Tent Poles and Metal Gear

• Avoid contact with metal, wet ropes, or conductive surfaces

• Don’t shelter under tarp frames or open-sided shelters

🌊 IF YOU’RE ON WATER:

🛶 1. Get Off the Water Immediately

• Boats, kayaks, SUPs, and fishing gear are lightning magnets

• Paddle to shore fast if thunder is audible

• If you can’t get off the water, crouch low in the center of the boat—away from metal

🧍♂️ 2. Once Ashore, Get at Least 100 Feet from the Water

• Water conducts electricity—being near the shoreline still puts you at risk

• Move to a low-lying, wooded area (not open sand)

🌲 3. Seek Proper Shelter When Possible

• Fully enclosed buildings or vehicles are the safest

• Avoid shelters with open sides, lean-tos, or picnic covers

🧠 Remember: Lightning Doesn’t Have to Be Close to Kill

If you can hear thunder—you’re at risk.

Why This Matters

Lightning is beautiful—and deadly. It moves faster than you can react and doesn’t care how experienced, prepared, or lucky you are.

You don’t need to fear the outdoors—you just need to respect the warning signs. Because in the wild, being storm-smart could save your life or someone you love.

When thunder roars, go indoors. Or get low. Fast.

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