I remember it like yesterday. I was in Bolivia, on the top of a mountain. My helmet was buzzing and sparks were jumping off my ice screws.
I was in the middle of a major lightning storm, at 17,000-feet.
We survived the storm. We were not hit by lightning. But it felt like it was very touch and go there for a bit. And honestly, I didn’t know that much about lightning in the mountains. That storm really focused me. And ever since, I’ve been extremely aware of the potential.
While there are some ranges — like the Wind Rivers or the Colorado Rockies — where lightning is common. It’s far less so in many other ranges. But that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t happen. A lightning storm can happen anywhere, and a strong knowledge of what to do could literally save your life.
The following video covers a number of lighting considerations. The lighting aspect of the video ends at about 5:30. The remainder of the video discusses other high elevation hiking issues and may be worth the watch for many.
Here are some takeaways:
- Pay attention to the weather. Go to lower ground to avoid the greatest hazard. Getting into a car is a good option, if possible.
- Stay out of caves and do not go into picnic shelters, as these things may attract lightning…and if their hit, you may be the easiest conduit for the grounding of the electricity.
- Hide in a uniform stand of trees, if possible. Stay away from tall lonely trees.
- If you’re with a group, spread out from one another (at least one-hundred feet) to avoid all getting hit by the same strike.
- Use lightning position, if needed.
