Question 1

When should I officially cancel a hike due to weather, including high winds?

Accepted Answer

If two out of three conditions—wind, visibility, and temperature—are unfavorable, stay below the treeline. Specifically, reconsider your plans if sustained winds exceed 40 mph (64 km/h) or if there is a greater than 50% chance of thunderstorms before 2:00 PM. No summit is worth the risk of a high-altitude rescue.

Question 2

How can I tell if a thunderstorm is about to hit?

Accepted Answer

Watch for "towering cumulus" clouds that look like giant cauliflower or anvils. On the trail, listen for the "quiet before the storm"—birds often stop singing and the wind may suddenly drop as the pressure shifts. If you feel your hair stand on end or hear a buzzing sound from your metal gear (like trekking poles), lightning is imminent; drop your gear and move to a lower elevation immediately.

Question 3

Is it safe to hike in the rain if there is no lightning?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but the risk shifts to hypothermia and "slip and fall" injuries. Rain makes granite and roots extremely slick. If you continue, slow your pace and focus on foot placement. Ensure you have a "dry kit" (spare socks and a base layer) inside a waterproof dry bag so you have something warm to change into if you are forced to stop.

Question 4

What is the "lightning position" and when should I use it?

Accepted Answer

The lightning position is a last-resort safety pose. Crouch down with your feet together, tuck your head, and cover your ears. By keeping your feet together, you minimize "step voltage"—the path electricity takes through the ground. If possible, squat on top of an insulating layer like a closed-cell foam sit-pad or your backpack (ensure the frame isn't metal).

Question 5

How do I get an accurate weather forecast for a specific peak?

Accepted Answer

Standard weather apps are often inaccurate for mountains because they pull data from the nearest town at a lower elevation. For the best accuracy, use Mountain-Forecast.com (which allows you to check weather at different elevations) or the NOAA/National Weather Service "point forecast" by clicking your exact location on their map tool.

Question 6

Can I use a tent as shelter during a lightning storm?

Accepted Answer

A tent provides zero protection from lightning. In fact, tent poles can act as conductors. If a storm hits while you are at camp, it is often safer to leave the tent and find a low-lying area in a uniform stand of shorter trees. If you must stay inside, sit in the lightning position on your sleeping pad in the center of the tent, away from the poles.

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