Lightning
QUICK ANSWER · START HERE
When you hear thunder, move into a substantial building or enclosed hard-top vehicle immediately. There is no safe place outdoors during a thunderstorm. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back out.
Take it with you. Verify locally.
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In immediate danger, contact local emergency services. Current instructions for your location take priority.
Do now.
- 01
Leave exposed areas
Get out of water and off ridges, fields and beaches. Do not shelter beneath a lone tree.
- 02
Choose real shelter
Use a building or enclosed hard-top vehicle; picnic shelters and tents are not adequate.
- 03
Avoid indoor pathways
Stay away from showers, sinks, corded phones and plugged-in equipment.
- 04
Help a struck person
Call emergency services. A lightning victim carries no electrical charge; give CPR if needed and follow dispatcher instructions.
Next steps.
Check forecasts before outdoor activity and identify shelter before leaving it.
Watch for.
Lightning can strike beyond rainfall. Do not wait for rain to seek shelter.
Sources & context.
Original Osprey Zero summary of the references below. U.S.-based guidance unless noted; check authorities where you are. This page is not a live alert.
Updated 2026-10-02. Recheck official instructions during an active event.