Tents are a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but what if there’s a storm?
It’s not just about rain. Lightning is one of the most dangerous things you can encounter in nature.
If you’re caught outside during a thunderstorm, your tent will not protect you from harm. In fact, certain tents can attract lightning.
However, there are some ways to minimize the risk, which we will discuss in this article.
Is Your Tent Safe From Lightning Strikes?
In short, no, not really. Though camping tents can be highly durable and waterproof in some cases, there is a good chance they will rupture from the pressure of a lightning strike.
The unlucky camper will be left to wait out the storm with nowhere to go. And that’s if you’re lucky enough to be outside your tent when the lightning strikes!
If you’re inside the tent, you could get electrocuted, which is the last thing you need. In the future, it would be nice to see lightning-proof tents, but who knows when that will happen!
As a side note, it’s important to mention that tents don’t attract lighting per se unless they are set up using some kind of metal. They just don’t offer any protection in the unfortunate event of a direct hit.
Should You Go Camping In a Thunderstorm?
The vast majority of people shouldn’t go camping in a thunderstorm. However, I know some people are adrenaline junkies that can’t be stopped!
So, I’ve outlined three ways you can enhance lightning protection and stay safe on your adventures below!
Check The Weather Forecast
The local weather forecast will tell you if there’s a chance of a thunderstorm in the area and whether it will pass through soon.
If there is a storm in the forecast, it’s best to postpone your trip or find a different campsite less likely to be affected by lightning.
Make Sure Your Tent Doesn't Attract lightning
Did you know that some tents attract lightning? As you probably know, lightning is attracted to metal.
When setting up a tent, it’s common to use metal tent stakes. These act as lightning rods, increasing the chance of a direct hit.
Moreover, camping in a bell tent becomes even more dangerous because they contain large aluminum tent poles that conduct electricity. immediately.
If you find yourself in a bell tent during a storm, seek alternative shelter
Avoid Trees & Large Objects
If you’re caught camping in a thunderstorm, one of the worst things you can do is pitch your tent under a tree.
You will be at risk of getting wet from the rain, but you’re also in danger of a direct strike by lightning.
Other objects, such as boulders, are also dangerous during a thunderstorm. If you seek shelter from the storm under one of them, there’s a good chance that you could be struck by lightning.
Boulders attract lightning because they are large, metallic objects. When a thunderstorm occurs, lightning will strike the tallest object in the area. This is often a tree, but if no tall trees are around, the next tallest object will be a boulder.
Call Off Your Camping Trip
There are a few reasons why it’s best to call off your camping trip if there are thunderstorms in the area.
First of all, you don’t want to risk getting caught in a storm while you’re outdoors. It is dangerous and could ruin your camping trip, especially if you’re thinking about the potential of lightning strikes.
What To Do If You're Stuck In A Bad Storm
If you’re caught in a lightning storm, you can take a few steps to stay safe.
First of all, avoid any large objects, such as trees and boulders. If you’re taking cover from the storm under one of these objects, there’s a good chance that you could be struck by lightning.
Lightning tends to hit the tallest object in any given area, so trees and large boulders are suitable candidates.
Second of all, make sure to stay away from water. It is dangerous to be near water during a lightning storm because it conducts electricity.
It’s also more common for people to get electrocuted when wet.
Finally, make yourself as small as possible and don’t touch any metal objects.
Final Words
Camping is a great way to get back in touch with nature. But it can be dangerous if you’re not prepared for the elements.
If there’s a storm in the forecast, it’s best to postpone your trip or find a different campsite that is less likely to be affected by lightning.
You can’t rely on a lightning-proof tent, as they don’t exist yet! If you still plan on camping despite a large storm, follow the tips in this article, such as staying away from tall objects and avoiding bells tents with aluminum poles.