How Rocks Can Make Traveling More Risky for Lightning

Few people think about the hidden danger that rocks pose during thunderstorms when they are planning a journey to the mountains, rocky cliffs, or wide plateaus. Most people pack for weather, terrain, and supplies. When the sky darkens and thunder roars in the distance, rocks may appear to be a safe haven, but under some circumstances, they can actually make lightning strikes more dangerous. Making safer decisions when going on outdoor adventures can be facilitated by knowing how and why this occurs.

The Reason Lightning Attacks Rocks

An imbalance between storm clouds and the earth results in lightning, which is a tremendous electrical discharge. It always looks for the quickest method to get to the ground. The easiest targets are frequently elevated things, such as buildings, trees, or rock formations. Because of their height and geological makeup, rocks—especially those found in exposed locations or at higher elevations—are often struck by lightning. Iron, copper, and magnetite are examples of metallic minerals found in some rocks that have electrical conductivity. Others have moisture-filled cracks that make it easier for lightning to strike them. Hidden electrical current routes can be found in even apparently dry rocks. The outcome? During a storm, lightning energy may travel through such rocks and into you if you are close to or in contact with them.

The Illusion Regarding Rock Shelter Security

Hikers and campers frequently make the mistake of sheltering next to a boulder or under a rocky overhang during a storm. It may shield you from wind and rain, but it cannot shield you from lightning. Actually, it can make you more vulnerable. Anybody in the vicinity could be impacted if the rock is struck because the electrical current could pass through or over its surface. Sometimes a lightning bolt doesn't even need to hit something directly. When lightning strikes a nearby person sitting or standing close to a taller object (such as a rock), it can cause a phenomenon known as "side flash."

Actual Events and Cautionary Tales

Numerous incidents of hikers and climbers being killed or seriously injured by lightning strikes on rocks have occurred all over the world. There are signs in certain national parks alerting visitors not to seek cover under overhanging rocks during storms. A crucial component of mountaineering training in mountainous regions like the Himalayas, Alps, or the Rockies is learning how to be safe during thunderstorms. The same prudence is necessary even in rocky, lower-altitude places like river gorges and plateaus. Lightning will follow any path it finds through rock to the ground; it is not selective about beauty or distance.

How to Be Safe in Rocky Environments

Despite the unpredictability of lightning, you can greatly lower your risk by taking the appropriate precautions:

1. Before you leave, check the weather.

When traveling over rocky or steep terrain, always check the local weather forecast. Particularly in the afternoon during the warmer months, thunderstorms frequently form rapidly.

2. Stay off the High Ground

Steer clear of ridges, peaks, cliffs, and big exposed stones if you hear thunder or see lightning. Get down to a lower altitude right away.

3. Avoid Taking Cover Under Overhangs

Although they might appear like the best places to hide from rain, rocky ledges and overhangs can be hazardous during electrical storms. Steer clear of vertical rock faces and avoid direct rock contact.

4. Adopt the Safety Position for Lightning

If there isn't a safe place to shelter during a storm, crouch with your head tucked down, hands over your ears, and feet together. Avoid resting flat and make as little touch with the earth as possible.

5. Hold Off Safely

Observe the 30-30 rule, which states that you should seek cover and remain there for at least 30 minutes following the final thunderclap if there is a 30-second or smaller interval between a lightning flash and thunder.

6. Recognize the Terrain

Learn about the kinds of rocks that can be found in the location you are visiting. Some rocks are more dangerous than others, particularly those that contain a lot of metallic minerals

Other Places to Stay and Safety Measures

The greatest places to hide during a lightning storm in the woods are completely enclosed structures or automobiles. Naturally, these aren't always accessible when trekking. In these situations, valleys, depressions in the ground, or lush forests (but not close to lone, towering trees) are safer than rocky, exposed places. Additionally, to lessen the possibility of numerous injuries from a single impact, keep your group at least 20 feet apart and avoid carrying metal hiking poles or equipment upright during storms.

When thunderstorms come, the beauty of rocky landscapes can be misleading. Although rocks may appear to be strong barriers, they can turn into hazardous conductors when struck by lightning. A safe adventure or a terrible event can be avoided by being aware of this danger and making appropriate plans. Therefore, keep in mind that being dry does not equate to staying safe the next time you travel over rocky terrain or up a picturesque trail. Knowing how rocks and lightning interact is essential to making sure your trip is remembered as an inspirational experience rather than a warning.