High season for thunder and lightning: Meteorological experts offer advice on how to protect against lightning strikes during outdoor activities
An increasing number of urban residents are enthusiastic about traveling to scenic areas in the suburbs or venturing into the wilderness as “hikers,” but a review of lightning disasters across the country shows that both the frequency of lightning strikes in the wild and the number of casualties among hikers struck by lightning are on the rise. Currently, we are in a high-incidence season for lightning. Yesterday, experts from the city’s meteorological bureau’s lightning protection center specifically offered advice to hikers going on outdoor adventures and trips on how to guard against lightning disasters.
Meteorological experts say that first, hikers must check the weather forecast for their destination before traveling, to find out in advance whether there will be severe convective weather, and try to plan their trips on days with clear weather. Second, if you encounter thunderstorms in the wild, it’s best not to use an umbrella with metal parts to avoid “attracting lightning.” In addition, it is essential to quickly find a relatively safe place to take shelter—do not stay in open areas where you may become a target for lightning strikes, and also avoid taking shelter under trees, because if lightning strikes the tree, it could cause injuries or fatalities to people below.
Meteorological experts have also summarized a simple and practical “two 30s” rule for hikers to prevent lightning strikes. First, when encountering a thunderstorm, start counting silently in your head from the moment you see lightning. If you hear thunder within 30 seconds, it means you are in a high-risk area for lightning and should seek shelter immediately. Second, if no thunder has occurred 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder, it indicates that you are in a relatively safe environment and can safely engage in outdoor activities. This method is particularly simple and effective for self-protection and assessing lightning safety in the wild or in situations without any protective measures.
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