Surviving a Lightning Storm
Would you know what to do if you were in a lightning storm?
An average of 90 people are killed by lightning strikes each year in the United States, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Do you know how to survive a lightning storm? These easy tips could save your life if you are caught in a lightning storm in the outdoors while camping, hiking, or backpacking.
Avoid it in the First Place
Pay attention to the weather. Look at the forecast before heading outdoors to go hiking or backpacking. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so always be mindful of the clouds. Dark underbellies, changing winds, and a scent of rain all indicate bad weather. Also, you can watch the leaves, as the low pressure associated with rains turns leaves over.
While enjoying the outdoors, you still need to pay attention to the changing weather, and be willing to turn around if there is a change of weather. Don't take the risk even if you haven't reached your destination yet - it is better to be late in this world than early in the next.
Staying in a car is safer than being outside, as the tires act as insulators and keep the car's contact with the ground from becoming a conductor.
Caught in the Storm
If you find yourself in the middle of a lightning storm while hiking, first of all, do not panic. Stay calm and take the proper precautions.
- Turn off all electronics (phone, GPS, etc.) that can act as conductors.
- Make sure there is no metal protruding from your body or backpack (trekking poles, etc.).
- Leave open fields, mountain tops, wet soil, and tall structures or trees; get as low as you can.
- Do not stop moving as your chance of being hit decreases when you move; head to a safe shelter.
- Find a shelter away from the wind and that is unlikely to get hit, such as depressions, caves, or between rocks.
Positive Streamers
Being struck by lightning is often preceded by a sensation of tingling and your hair standing on end along your arms and the back of your neck. If you have this feeling, and you are in (or near) a storm, the chances are you have sent up a "positive streamer." 
If this sudden charge connects with the electrons pooling beneath the clouds, lightning will strike. If you feel this sensation, either run as fast as you can or drop down on your knees, bend forward, and place both hands on the ground. Keep your ears covered and your eyes closed. Hold your breath, as you can breathe in the superheated air that surrounds you and is expanding out from a lightning bolt. Do not lie down completely. If lightning strikes you, you want it to take the shortest path to the ground. This will be through your arms, and hopefully will miss your vital organs.
Someone Gets Hit
If someone is struck by lightning, call 911 or emergency medical support immediately. Wait until the danger has passed and begin medical treatment on the injured person. If they have no pulse or heartbeat, start performing CPR. Treat electrical burns as you would any other type. Neurological and internal injuries are possible, however, 80% of people recover after being hit by lightning. It is also possible for someone to be hit by lightning and be practically uninjured.
After the Storm
Wait for at least 30 minutes after the lighting and thunder has stopped to leave your shelter and resume hiking or backpacking. Be aware of other storms and lightning strikes that may occur.
