LIGHTNING SAFETY

If you can hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you.

Lightning is a powerful electrical discharge between clouds and the ground. It poses a serious danger, especially in open areas. Cyclists, hikers, campers, anglers, shepherds, swimmers, and people in small boats are among those most at risk.

Being in an exposed area, standing on high ground, or becoming the tallest object nearby increases the danger.

THE 30 / 30 RULE

One of the simplest ways to assess lightning danger is the 30/30 rule.

If the time between a lightning flash and the sound of thunder is less than 30 seconds, the lightning is dangerously close and you should immediately seek shelter.

After the last thunder is heard, wait at least 30 minutes before going back outside.

Warning Signs of Immediate Danger

The following signs may indicate that a lightning strike is imminent:

• Hair standing on end
• Tingling or burning sensations on the skin
• Crackling sounds from metal objects
• A feeling of static electricity in the air

If any of these occur, move to a safer location immediately.

What Cyclists Should Do

When a storm approaches, the safest option is to reach a proper shelter as quickly as possible.

Recommended Actions

• Seek shelter inside a building or enclosed vehicle.
• Leave open fields, ridgelines, and hilltops immediately.
• Stay at least 1.5–2 meters apart when riding in a group.
• Move away from lakes, rivers, and streams.
• Get off the bike and move a few meters away from it.
• Avoid becoming the tallest object in the area.

What Not To Do

• Do not shelter under a lone tree.
• Do not continue riding in an open area.
• Do not lie flat on the ground.
• Avoid power lines, fences, and railway tracks.
• Do not stand under metal roofs or shelters.
• Stay away from water and wet surfaces.

SAFE SHELTERS

The safest places during a lightning storm are:

• Fully enclosed buildings
• Cars with closed windows

Dry ditches, low valleys, or areas between shorter trees may provide temporary protection, but they are not fully safe shelters.

Caves are not always safe. Lightning current can travel along cave walls, so avoid staying near entrances or touching the walls.

IF NO SHELTER IS AVAİLABLE

If you cannot reach shelter:

• Do not stand upright.
• Do not lie flat on the ground.
• Make yourself as small as possible.
• Crouch low with minimal ground contact.
• Try to reduce contact with the ground.

Wet ground can spread electrical current over a wide area.

Indoors During a Storm

Even indoors, some precautions should be taken:

• Stay away from open doors and windows.
• Avoid using electrical devices.
• Unplug appliances if possible.
• Keep away from plumbing, sinks, radiators, and bathtubs.

ADDİTİONAL NOTES FOR CYCLİSTS

• A helmet does not protect against lightning.
• Carbon or metal bike frames do not eliminate the risk.
• Wet roads and surfaces may increase danger.
• “Just a few more kilometers” can be a dangerous decision during a storm.

SUMMARY

The key principles of lightning safety are:

• Recognize the storm early,
• Leave exposed areas immediately,
• Seek proper shelter,
• Do not resume riding until the danger has clearly passed.

Lightning can be deadly within seconds, but the right decisions can save lives.